* Sand: Sand is made up of tiny fragments of rock and minerals.
* Lithification: This process involves several steps:
* Compaction: As layers of sediment (including sand) accumulate, the weight of the overlying layers presses down on the lower layers, squeezing out water and air.
* Cementation: Dissolved minerals in the water within the sediment precipitate out, forming a glue-like substance that binds the sediment grains together.
* Recrystallization: Sometimes, the mineral grains within the sediment can change their shape or size due to pressure and temperature, further strengthening the rock.
The combination of these processes transforms loose sand into a solid rock, which can be called sandstone.
