Question

The formation of sedimentary rocks involves

1. weathering of preexisting rock
2. transportation of rock fragments or matter dissolved in water (solute)
3. deposition of rock fragments or precipitation of solutes
4. burial and diagenesis
5. all of the above

Answer 1

The correct answer involves all steps listed: weathering, transportation, deposition, and diagenesis, demonstrating the complex process of sedimentary rock formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The formation of sedimentary rocks indeed involves all of the above steps: weathering of preexisting rock, transportation of rock fragments or solute, deposition of materials, and burial and diagenesis.

How Sedimentary Rocks Are Formed

Pre-existing rock undergoes weathering due to various factors including roots, acid rainwater, and erosion forces such as gravity, wind, and water.

1. The weathered particles are then transported by water or air until they settle in an area with less current.
2. Material like quartz, which resists weathering, often makes up sand size grains, while feldspar weathers into clay.
3. These deposited materials then undergo lithification, which includes compaction and cementation processes to form sedimentary rocks.

These processes reflect the complex journey from loose sediment to solid rock, highlighting important concepts like clastic sedimentary rocks, chemical weathering, and porosity reduction.