Final answer:
The terms grain roundness, sediment sorting, layering, and texture correspond to definitions of grain shape, the size separation process, sediment layer arrangement, and sediment or rock appearance respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Match the following terms to their best definitions:
a. Grain roundness - 1) The shape of individual grains in a sediment sample
b. Sediment sorting - 2) The process of separating sediment particles based on their size
c. Layering - 3) The arrangement of different sediment layers in a rock or sedimentary deposit
d. Texture - 4) The overall appearance and feel of a sediment or rock sample
Understanding these characteristics helps geologists interpret the history of sediments, such as their distance from source and depositional environments.
For example, well-sorted sediments are often indicative of being transported a far distance from their source, as sorting tends to improve with transport distance. Grain roundness is another indicator; well-rounded grains typically suggest long-distance travel, where rough edges are smoothed over time.