Geology 1030 Quiz 3

What is the category, potential environment, and description of Bioclastic limestone?

Biogenic - composed of large shell fragments, fizzes with acid - found offshore, on beaches, & marine environments

What is the category, potential environment, and description of Bituminous coal?

Biogenic - dark gray/black in color, smooth/sooty feeling - found in swamp, tropical environment

What are clastic sediments?

Form from weathering, erosion, deposition, and lithification. They are composed of pre-existing rock which can be identified by their dominant grain size

What are the grain categories for clastic rocks in order from largest to smallest?

Gravel Sand Silt Clay

What are biogenic sediments?

Often need a microscope to see the remains of plants and animals. Composed of shells and shell fragments

Define deposition

When sediments are deposited in a new location

What is the category, potential environment, and description of Sandstone?

Clastic - dominant grain is sand but need a lens to see - found in coastal plain, beach, sand dunes

What is the category, potential environment, and description of Conglomerate?

Clastic - dominant grain of gravel that is moderately to well rounded and can see with eyes - found in the mountains

What is the category, potential environment, and description of Breccia?

Clastic - dominant grain of gravel that is poorly rounded and can see with eyes - found in the mountains

What are chemical sediments?

Produced from chemical reactions that can be identified by their crystalline appearance. One particular mineral will dominate.

Define lithification

Transforming the layers of sediment into a solid, sedimentary rock

Define weathering

breakdown of pre-existing rocks due to physical and chemical weathering

Define erosion

transporting sediments to a new location which requires energy