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  • Understanding Detrital Rocks: Clast Size & Classification
    Detrital rocks are named according to the size of the clasts that make them up.

    Here's a breakdown:

    * Clast: A fragment of rock or mineral.

    * Detrital rock: A sedimentary rock formed from the accumulation of clasts.

    Here are some common detrital rock types and their corresponding clast sizes:

    * Conglomerate: Rounded clasts greater than 2 mm in diameter.

    * Breccia: Angular clasts greater than 2 mm in diameter.

    * Sandstone: Rounded or angular clasts between 0.0625 mm and 2 mm in diameter.

    * Siltstone: Clasts between 0.0039 mm and 0.0625 mm in diameter.

    * Claystone (or Shale): Clasts smaller than 0.0039 mm in diameter.

    So, the size of the clasts is the primary factor that determines the name of a detrital rock.

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