* Erosion: This process breaks down existing rocks into smaller pieces (sediments) through wind, water, ice, or other natural forces.
* Deposition: As the eroded sediments are transported, they eventually settle down in a new location, often in layers.
The accumulation of these layers over time, under pressure and sometimes with the addition of dissolved minerals, eventually solidifies into sedimentary rock.
Examples of sedimentary rocks include:
* Sandstone: Formed from sand grains deposited and cemented together.
* Limestone: Formed from the accumulation of shells, corals, and other marine organisms.
* Shale: Formed from fine-grained clay particles deposited in layers.
So, while erosion breaks down rocks and deposition builds them up again, together they create the foundation for a whole new category of rock – sedimentary rocks.
