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  • Clastic Rock Sediment Composition: What Determines It?
    Here's the answer and explanation:

    The sediment composition of a clastic rock is determined by all of the following EXCEPT the *type of rock the sediment is derived from*.

    Here's why:

    * Source Rock: While the source rock (the original rock that was broken down) influences the *potential* mineral composition of the sediment, it's not the sole determining factor.

    * Weathering and Erosion: These processes break down the source rock and can significantly alter the mineral composition. For example, feldspar in granite may be weathered into clay minerals.

    * Transportation: As sediment is transported, it can be sorted, rounded, and chemically altered. This can change the composition of the sediment.

    * Depositional Environment: The environment where sediment is deposited plays a major role. For example, a beach environment will have different sediment compositions compared to a river channel or a deep-sea environment.

    * Diagenesis: This is the process of physical and chemical changes that occur after sediment deposition. Diagenesis can further alter the composition of the rock.

    In summary: The composition of a clastic rock is a complex result of multiple factors, and the source rock is just one piece of the puzzle.

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