Sedimentary Rock Lab Final
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Lone Star College System, North Harris *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
1401
Subject
Geology
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by CoachFinchMaster481
Directions
: Complete the following questions using three (3) reputable
online sources (not Wikipedia). All answers must at least two (2) complete sentences in length. Your responses must be in your own words. You will NOT
be awarded credit for copying and pasting directly from online sources.
•
What is sediment? Be sure to describe it in terms of geology.
I
n geology, sediment refers to particles and debris derived from the weathering and erosion of rocks, minerals, and organic materials. These particles accumulate and settle over time, forming layers that can eventually solidify into sedimentary rocks through processes like lithification.
•
What is chemical weathering? In your response, include the following terms: biochemical and precipitate.
Chemical weathering is the process by which rocks and minerals break down through chemical reactions. Biochemical weathering involves the influence of living organisms on these reactions, while precipitation refers to the formation of new minerals as dissolved substances in water solidify and settle.
•
What is mechanical weathering? In your response, include the following terms: detrital and clastic.
Mechanical weathering is the breakdown of rocks into smaller particles without changing their chemical composition. This process often involves physical forces like abrasion, and the resulting detrital or clastic fragments can contribute to the formation of sedimentary rocks.
•
How do clastic sedimentary rocks form? In your response, include the following terms: lithification, deposition, erosion, and compaction.
Clastic sedimentary rocks form through a sequence of geological processes. It begins with the erosion of pre-existing rocks, followed by the transportation and deposition of sediments, and ultimately involves compaction and lithification, where the sediments are compacted and solidified into rock over time.
•
Name 4 grain sizes. To get you started, the largest size has been provided.
•
Boulder
•
Cobbles
•
Pebbles
•
Granules
•
Sand
•
What are rock strata? What are some things that make strata unique?
Rock strata are layers of rock that are typically horizontal or nearly horizontal and represent different geological time periods. Strata are unique because they often contain distinct sedimentary characteristics, fossils, and mineral compositions that provide valuable information about the Earth's history and the processes that shaped it over time.
•
Name 4 sedimentary structures (a structure formed during deposition).
•
Bedding or Stratification:
Horizontal layering in sedimentary
rocks.
•
Cross-bedding:
Inclined layers within a larger sedimentary bed, indicative of directional flow during deposition.
•
Ripple marks:
Small, repetitive wave-like ridges on the surface of sedimentary layers.
•
Mud cracks:
Polygonal patterns formed as fine-grained sediments dry and contract, often seen in mudstone or shale.
•
Site your sources:
Sedimentary Rocks
, www.columbia.edu/~vjd1/sed_rx.htm#:~:text=Formation%20of
%20Sedimentary%20Rocks,two%20steps%20are%20called%20lithification. Accessed 2 Mar. 2024. “Stratification.” Encyclopædia Britannica
, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/science/stratification-geology. Accessed 2 Mar. 2024. Alden, Andrew. “What’s the Difference between Mud, Clay and Silt?” ThoughtCo
, ThoughtCo, 20 June 2019, www.thoughtco.com/all-about-sediment-grain-size-1441194. •
Using Google Draw, or a similar drawing program, sketch an image of a clastic
sedimentary rock consisting primarily of fine gravel
. You may insert your drawing at the end of this document or attach it separately to the assignment dropbox. Do the best you can!
•
Using Google Draw, or a similar drawing program, sketch an image of a sedimentary structure
(see Question 7) that could be created by the wind
. You may insert your drawing at the end of this document or attach it separately to the assignment dropbox. Do the best you can!
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help