answersLogoWhite

0

The most obvious way to tell whether or not a rock is sedimentary is to look at its texture. Remember, sedimentary rocks are formed when sediments, fossils, shells, etc. are weathered and then lithified together. The lithification of those materials creates somewhat of an eclectic mix of particles. For instance, coquina looks as if someone cemented a bunch of shells together. Sedimentary rocks will have varying grain sizes, ranging from the larger gravel-sized grains to the microscopic microcrystalline grain sizes. These grains will vary in shape, from angular to well-rounded. Additionally, the grains will be arranged in varying manners, from being poorly sorted (a mix of different sizes) to well sorted (all generally the same size). When compared side by side with metamorphic or igneous rocks, the textural differences presented by sedimentary rocks become very clear.

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago

What else can I help you with?

Continue Learning about Earth Science

What is residual parent material?

Residual parent material is the weathered bedrock that is found beneath the soil layer. It is the unconsolidated material from which the soil has developed over time through the process of weathering and erosion.


Which sedimentry rocks are formed by chemical precipitation from seawater?

Some examples of sedimentary rocks formed by chemical precipitation from seawater are limestone, dolomite, and evaporites such as rock salt and gypsum. These rocks form when minerals in seawater precipitate out and accumulate over time to create solid rock formations.


Whats the difference in rocks?

Rocks vary in mineral composition, texture, and origin. Igneous rocks are formed from magma or lava, sedimentary rocks are made from weathered materials or organic debris, and metamorphic rocks are altered by heat and pressure. Each type has distinct characteristics that result from their formation processes.


How does sedementry rocks form?

Sedimentary rocks form through the accumulation and compression of sediments such as sand, mud, and organic matter. Over time, these sediments are deposited in layers and compacted by the weight of overlying material, eventually hardening into rock through processes like lithification. Sedimentary rocks can also form from the remains of living organisms like shells or plants.


How are Sedimentry rocks formed by?

Sedimentary rocks are formed through the deposition and compression of sediments, such as sand, silt, and clay, over time. These sediments are compacted and cemented together to create layers of sedimentary rock, often by the pressure of overlying layers or through chemical processes. Examples of sedimentary rocks include sandstone, limestone, and shale.