How do sedimentary rocks typically form?

Sedimentary rocks typically form through the accumulation of sediment fragments over time. This process begins with the weathering and erosion of existing rocks, which breaks them down into smaller particles such as sand, silt, and clay. These sediments are then transported by wind, water, or ice, and eventually deposited in various environments like riverbeds, lakes, and ocean floors.

As more layers of sediment accumulate, the weight of the overlying materials compacts the lower layers, and mineral cements may precipitate out of solution to bind the sediments together. This compaction and cementation result in the formation of solid rock. Thus, sedimentary rocks are characterized by their layered appearance and may contain fossils, which provide insights into the ancient environments where they formed. This process highlights the dynamic nature of geological systems and the interaction between different Earth materials over extensive periods.