TeXes Science Practice Test

Which term describes the process that turns sediments into sedimentary rocks?

1. Fossilization

2. Lithification

3. Erosion

4. Intrusion

The correct answer is: Lithification

Lithification is the term that describes the process of transforming sediments into sedimentary rocks. This process involves several key steps: first, sediments accumulate in layers due to various geological processes, including sedimentation in bodies of water. Over time, as more layers build up, the weight of the overlying material compresses the particles, reducing the space between them. Concurrently, mineral-rich waters may percolate through the sediments, facilitating the cementation process, where minerals precipitate and bind the sediment particles together. As a result, lithification leads to the formation of solid sedimentary rock structures. The importance of this process is underscored by its role in forming a significant portion of the Earth's crust, contributing to our understanding of geological history and paleoenvironments. Other terms in the question relate to different geological processes. For instance, fossilization pertains specifically to the preservation of biological remains, while erosion involves the weathering and transportation of rock and soil material. Intrusion refers to the process by which magma intrudes into existing rock layers, forming igneous rock, not sedimentary rock.