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What type of rock will sand become when lithified?

User Shmee
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When sand is lithified, it typically becomes sandstone. Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-sized particles that have been compacted and cemented together. The process of lithification involves the transformation of loose sediment into solid rock through compaction and cementation. During compaction, the weight of overlying sediments compresses the sand grains, reducing the pore spaces between them. Cementation occurs when minerals, such as silica, calcite, or iron oxides, precipitate and fill in the remaining pore spaces, binding the sand grains together. This cementation process solidifies the sand into a cohesive rock structure, forming sandstone. Sandstone can exhibit various colors, textures, and patterns depending on the composition of the sand grains and the minerals present in the cementing material. It is a common rock type found in many geological settings and can be further classified based on its grain size and other characteristics.

User Jeremy Gray
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