The diagrams illustrate the process of sedimentary rock formation in coastal areas.
Overall, the process consists of four main stages, beginning with the weathering and erosion of rocks and ending with the formation of solid sedimentary rock.
Initially, rain and water gradually break down large rocks into smaller pieces. These small pieces are then transported downwards by water towards the bottom of the coastal area. After reaching the bottom, the particles settle and accumulate in several layers. Over time, more sediment is deposited, creating additional layers above the existing ones.
In the next stage, the increasing weight of the upper layers puts pressure on the lower ones, causing them to become compacted. This process makes the sediment layers denser and reduces the spaces between the particles. Finally, minerals fill the remaining spaces and cement the particles together. As a result of compaction and cementation, the loose sediment gradually turns into solid sedimentary rock.
