Here's how it works:

* Sediments: Small pieces of rock, minerals, or organic matter are weathered and eroded from existing rocks.

* Deposition: These sediments are transported by wind, water, or ice and eventually settle in a new location, often in layers.

* Compaction: The weight of overlying sediments presses down on the lower layers, squeezing out water and air.

* Cementation: Dissolved minerals in the water between the sediments crystallize and bind the particles together, forming solid rock.

Examples of sedimentary rocks include sandstone, limestone, shale, and conglomerate.