Here's a breakdown:
* Sediments: These are loose materials like sand, mud, shells, and pebbles that are created by the weathering and erosion of existing rocks.
* Compaction: Over time, the weight of overlying sediments presses down on the buried sediments, squeezing out water and air, causing them to become more tightly packed.
* Cementation: Dissolved minerals in groundwater seep through the spaces between the sediments. As the water evaporates, the minerals crystallize and act as a glue, binding the sediments together into a solid rock.
Examples of sedimentary rocks:
* Sandstone: Formed from cemented sand grains.
* Limestone: Formed from cemented shells and other marine organisms.
* Shale: Formed from compacted clay.
* Conglomerate: Formed from cemented pebbles and gravel.
