Sedimentary rocks are the build up of other rocks, this is why they are sometimes referred to as secondary rocks. When rocks break up by getting crushed or ripped apart by water, wind, machines etc. it forms sediment small shards of rocks which float around in the wind or in the water. These sedimentary rocks get sucked into the ground lower and lower until the begin to be compressed and mould together forming sedimentary rocks.
See how sedimentary rocks are formed.
The conglomerate is covered in different rocks, sand and pebbles. All the features have been compressed together by a strong force.
The rock would have been formed by waves or water crushing the rocks together. You can tell how this rock was made because generally when found its in an area full of water or where water once existed. |
Limestone holds small rocks and grains that have been compressed together. It contains fossils from beneath the sea. Limestone can look very different sometimes beautiful and sometimes dark.
The rock is formed from stones within the sand being compressed together under layers of sand. It can also be formed from broken shells from living organisms. Thanks to the fossils found within you can tell when these rocks were formed. It is clear to see that all the grains of sand and shells have been compressed to form limestone. |
Also known as black coal these rocks fall into their own category. The rock may appear sparkly or dull the one you can see now is dull. the rock has a soft texture to it.
This rock is formed from lignite that has been exposed to high pressure. You can clearly Identify this rock because it is one of a kind, it isn't smooth and doesn't grow crystals. |
Find out about the different types of sedimentary rocks