Sedimentary rocks or stratified rocks are one of the types of rock that exist. They are formed by sedimentary particles and organic matter that have been compressed over time.
We find this type of rock on continents and at the bottom of the oceans. They represent about ¾ of the rocks of the earth.
Sedimentary rocks receive this name because they are formed over a long period, through physical, chemical and biological processes.
In this way, sediments (residues) are accumulated that generate several strata or layers.
They come from other types of rocks that, over time, were formed by the process of erosion: by the action of wind, rain, ice, seas, rivers, among others.
For this reason, in this type of rock it is possible to find several fossils, that is, traces of ancient living beings (plant or animal).
Importance of Sedimentary Rocks
Sedimentary rocks represent important elements for research. They are relevant for studies on environmental variation over time, as well as on the geological aspects that make up the terrestrial structure.
In addition, sedimentary rocks have great economic importance, since they are used in constructions and as energy sources, for example, the mineral coal.
Understand What is Geology?
Types of Rocks
Remember that rocks are natural agglomerates of ores and organic matter. There are basically three types of rocks:
- Magmatic Rocks: are the oldest rocks on the planet, formed by the solidification of terrestrial magma.
- Sedimentary Rocks: are rocks derived from particles of other existing rocks, which solidify over time.
- Metamorphic Rocks: are the youngest rocks, which are formed by the transformation of some ores.
Learn more about Types of Rocks.
Types of Sedimentary Rocks
According to the origin of the process of formation of sedimentary rocks, they are classified into:
- Clastic Sedimentary Rocks: arising from the accumulation of existing rock particles.
- Chemical Sedimentary Rocks: from mineral remains and chemical processes.
- Organic Sedimentary Rocks: from animal remains.
Learn more about the rock formation process in the article: Rock Cycle.
Examples of Sedimentary Rocks
Many types of sedimentary rocks are used in civil construction, for example:
- Sand
- Sandstone
- Clay
- Rock salt
- Limestone
- Plaster
- Mineral coal
Learn more about mineral kingdom.
Test your knowledge with Rock exercises.
