Types of Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed when the fragments of igneous rocks are broken down because of weathering and are carried away by the agents of gradation such as water, glaciers, and ocean waves. Deposition of these fragments of rocks results in the formation of sedimentary rocks. Lithification is a process where loose sediments are turned into rock. Types of sedimentary rocks have been discussed below


Types of Sedimentary Rocks


Types of Sedimentary Rocks On the basis of the formation

Mechanically formed rocks: When old rocks are denuded and broken into fragments by running water or moving glaciers, they are deposited on new lands resulting in the formation of rocks.

Chemically formed rocks: They are formed when chemical sedimentation takes place generally because of the evaporation of water-containing salts in the solution.

Organically formed rocks: These rocks are formed when the remains of plants and animals get compressed forming a rock. For example, limestone and lignite.

Types of Sedimentary Rocks On the basis of agents of formation

Riverine rocks: These rocks are formed by the deposition of alluvial soil by streams of water.
Lacustrine rocks: These are found on the bed of a lake after long periods of deposition.
Glacial rocks: These are formed because of the deposition of debris by glaciers.
Aeolian rocks: The cementation of sand particles brought by winds result in the formation of Aeolian rocks.
Marine rocks: These rocks are formed on the ocean floor. There are two types of marine rocks. Calcareous marine rocks are formed by the deposition of shells and skeletons of sea organisms.
Carbonaceous rocks: These rocks are formed when sea plants and animals are buried under the sea for a long period of time.


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