Geology: Lithification Process

What is the primary process by which new sedimentary rocks are formed?

Which of the following is NOT a type of sedimentary rock formed through lithification?

What is the main mechanism by which clastic sedimentary rocks are formed?

Which step in the formation of sedimentary rocks comes after transportation?

What is the final step in the rock cycle?

What is the role of lithification in the rock cycle?

What is the primary factor that determines the type and size of sediments deposited in different locations?

During which process do loose sediments undergo compression to form new sedimentary rocks?

What is the term used to describe the process by which sediments combine to form sedimentary rocks?

What is the primary role of cementation in the formation of sedimentary rocks?

What is the primary mechanism by which sedimentary rocks like salt, gypsum, and limestone are formed?

What is the source of many common table salt deposits?

What is the primary difference between cementation and recrystallization?

What is the common characteristic of the sediments formed through recrystallization?

What happens to crystals during recrystallization?

Lithification is the process of forming new sedimentary rock from sediments, involving three main mechanisms: compaction, cementation, and recrystallization
It is the final step in the rock cycle, where sediments become sedimentary rock

Weathering and erosion: breakdown and movement of rocks and soil via wind and rain
Transportation: sediments are carried by wind, rain, and bodies of water to a new location
Deposition: sediments are deposited in a new location
Lithification: sediments combine to form new sedimentary rock through compaction, cementation, and recrystallization

Clastic sedimentary rocks: formed when individual rocks and stones are cemented together
Chemical sedimentary rocks: formed due to the precipitation of chemical compounds out of water
Organic sedimentary rocks: formed when plants and shells of aquatic organisms are cemented together or dissolve to form a new rock

Loose sediments are deposited on the ground and more sediments pile up, increasing the weight and pressure, causing the formation of new sedimentary rocks
Examples of rocks formed through compaction: sandstone, siltstone, shale

Dissolved minerals crystallize and glue sediment grains together, forming new sedimentary rocks
Examples of rocks formed through cementation: salt, gypsum, limestone
Can occur in conjunction with compaction

Unstable crystals and ions become dissolved in solution and then recrystallize to form new, stable crystals
Grains of sediment bind together to form new sedimentary rocks
Often associated with the weathering and breakdown of skeletal material and shells
Examples of rocks formed through recrystallization: limestone