What is grain sorting?

Answer 1

Grain sorting is used in the observation of geological specimens such as sands.

Sorting refers to the distribution of grain sizes in a rock.

There are 2 classifications of sorting.

Well sorted = All grains in the rock are the same size. (e.g desert sandstone)

Poorly sorted = A mixture of grain sizes. (e.g Sandstone mixed with clay or gravel mixed with sand)

Well sorted sands result from long transport where unstable minerals have been winnowed out. They have higher porosity and permiability.

Poorly sorted material is the result of rapid deposition of sediment without sorting by currents of wind or water.

Answer 2

Grain sorting is the process of separating grains based on their size, weight, or quality. It is typically done using machines that utilize screens, air blowers, or other mechanisms to separate the grains into different categories. This practice helps to ensure uniformity in the final product and meet specific quality standards.