Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:
1. Weathering and Erosion: Existing rocks are broken down into smaller pieces (sediments) by forces like wind, water, and ice.
2. Transportation: The sediments are carried away from their source by wind, water, or ice.
3. Deposition: The sediments eventually settle and accumulate in a new location.
4. Compaction: As more layers of sediment pile on top, the weight from above squeezes out water and air, pressing the sediments closer together.
5. Cementation: Minerals dissolved in the water between the sediment particles precipitate out, acting like glue to bind the particles together.
These processes, taken together, transform loose sediments into solid rock, known as sedimentary rock.
