Final answer:
Elements that precipitate to form chemical sedimentary rocks come from dissolved minerals in water, originating from biotic and abiotic sources including plants, animals, and volcanic gases. These minerals precipitate when water evaporates to leave behind solids like salt and limestone, which then form sedimentary rocks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elements that eventually precipitate to form chemical sedimentary rocks originate from minerals that animals, plants, and volcanic gases contributed to water over time. When water containing these dissolved minerals evaporates, it leaves behind solid deposits. These deposits become chemical sedimentary rocks through a process called precipitation. Evaporite deposits, such as salt from salt lakes and limestone from sea bottoms, are common examples. Additionally, organic sedimentary rocks form from the accumulation of organic materials, like plant and animal remains, and can be transformed into coal, oil, or natural gas after being buried and subjected to heat and pressure.
Formation of Clastic and Chemical Sedimentary Rocks
Clastic sedimentary rocks, like sandstone and mudstone, are formed by the transportation of rock particles via wind, water, or ice and their subsequent deposition in new locations. Conversely, chemicals leached from rocks are carried by water and, upon concentration, lead to chemical precipitation of minerals forming sedimentary rocks such as limestone or evaporite minerals like salt.