1. Weathering and Erosion: The original sedimentary rock is broken down by weathering (physical or chemical) and eroded by wind, water, or ice. This creates smaller particles (sediments).
2. Transportation: The sediments are carried away by wind, water, or ice. The distance and mode of transport influence the size, shape, and sorting of the sediments.
3. Deposition: The transported sediments eventually settle out, often in layers, due to a decrease in energy (like a slowing river).
4. Burial and Compaction: Over time, more layers of sediment accumulate on top, burying the previous layers. The weight of the overlying sediment compresses the lower layers, squeezing out water and air, and reducing pore space.
5. Cementation: Dissolved minerals in the water within the sediments precipitate out between the sediment grains, acting like glue to bind the grains together. This process forms a solid, cohesive rock.
6. Diagenesis: This is a general term for all the chemical and physical changes that occur within sediments after deposition and burial. This includes processes like recrystallization, dissolution, and the formation of new minerals.
Example:
Imagine a sandstone (made of sand grains cemented together) that is exposed to the elements. It weathers and erodes, creating sand and silt particles. These particles are transported by wind or water and eventually deposited in a new location. Burial and compaction occur, followed by cementation, creating a new sedimentary rock. This could be a mudstone (fine-grained) or a siltstone (medium-grained), depending on the size of the deposited particles.
Important Note: While these processes can transform one sedimentary rock into another, the original rock's composition plays a significant role in the final outcome.
