Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Weathering and Erosion: Existing rocks are broken down into smaller particles (sediments) through processes like freezing/thawing, wind abrasion, and chemical reactions.
2. Transportation: These sediments are then transported by wind, water, or ice to a new location.
3. Deposition: When the transporting force loses energy, the sediments settle and accumulate in layers.
4. Compaction: Over time, the weight of overlying sediments presses down on the deposited layers, squeezing out water and air, and causing the sediments to become more tightly packed.
5. Cementation: Dissolved minerals in the water between the sediment grains precipitate out and crystallize, acting like glue to bind the grains together. This process is called cementation.
The combined processes of compaction and cementation are what make up lithification.
