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Earth's LandscapesActivity for Kids

Sedimentary Rock Model DIY

Duration: 30-60 min
Difficulty: Easy
Cost: $0 to $5

Model the formation of sedimentary rock through deposition!

Visit The Full Lesson Download Instructions as PDF

Material List

1Plastic container with lid
1Handful of small rocks
1Handful of gravel
1Handful of sand
1Baby powder or flour (optional)
1Liter of water
1Spoon

Instructions

1Add a handful of rocks to the plastic container.
2Then add a handful of the gravel.
3Then add a layer of sand followed by a layer of baby powder or flour.
4Add water until the container is almost full but not all the way.
5Place lid on tightly. Shake and allow to settle.

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How It Works

When water is moving, like in a river or ocean waves, sediment is suspended in the water making it look dirty or muddy. When it slows down, sediment settles down on the bottom of the lake or ocean and it is deposited. Larger sediment settles first and finer sediment remains suspended longer. Layers form based on the size of the sediment. Over time, the layers can become compacted to form sedimentary rock. Additional layers form on top of the first as more sediment is washed into the system. After thousands or millions of years the layers can be as high as some mountains!