Geology Terms

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Sediment

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Material that is broken down by processes of weathering and erosion, and is transported by wind, water, or ice.

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Weathering

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The process of breaking down rocks, soil, and minerals through contact with the Earth's atmosphere, water, and biological organisms.

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Deposition

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The geological process in which sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or landmass.

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Erosion

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The process by which natural forces move weathered rock and soil from one place to another.

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Cementation

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The process of binding and hardening sediments into solid rock by the precipitation of mineral matter in the pore spaces.

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Compaction

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The process by which sediments are pressed together under their own weight, reducing pore space and expelling water.

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Sedimentary Rock

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Rock that has formed through the deposition and solidification of sediment, especially sediment transported by water, ice, and wind.

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Clastic Sedimentary Rock

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A type of sedimentary rock that is composed of fragments, or clasts, of pre-existing minerals and rock.

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Organic Sedimentary Rock

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Sedimentary rock that forms from the accumulation of plant or animal debris.

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Chemical Sedimentary Rock

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Sedimentary rock that forms when minerals precipitate from a solution or settle from a suspension.