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Sedimentary Rock Definition

Sedimentary rock forms from compacted sediment. For example, layers compact over time, creating a layered structure.

View Lesson on Rocks & Minerals (Including Rock Cycle)
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Rocks & Minerals (Including Rock Cycle)

LESSON MATERIALSmove

Fun Facts

  • Sedimentary rock has layers called strata.
  • Sedimentary rocks preserve evidence of past life as fossils.
  • Relative dating uses rock strata to estimate the age of fossils.

Why Do We Need To Know About Sedimentary Rock

Studying sedimentary rocks helps us learn about Earth’s past and their importance in different jobs. For example, shale is a sedimentary rock used in building bricks, showing its role in construction. Also, rocks like coal are key in making electricity because they are a major energy source.

These rocks are also important in studying old life forms because they hold fossils. This is crucial for people working in geology and paleontology as it helps them understand the order of rock layers, which tells us about Earth’s history and where to find resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are rocks and minerals different?
Minerals are solid, naturally formed substances that always have the same composition and the same properties. Rocks are made of minerals.
How do crystals form?
Hot water dissolves minerals. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind the dissolved minerals in a crystal structure.
Describe three ways rocks make our lives easier.
Gabbro is a type of rock used to make roads; granite is used in building materials; coal is used to generate electricity; and shale is used to make bricks.
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