What are the three main types of rocks?

The three main types of rocks are igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. Sedimentary rocks, like shale or sandstone, form from the accumulation of sediments.

How do sedimentary rocks form?

Sedimentary rocks form from the accumulation and compaction of sediments (fragments of other rocks, minerals, or organic matter) that are transported by water, wind, or ice. Over time, these sediments are compressed and cemented together.

Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers?

Many crossword clues, especially general ones, can have multiple correct answers depending on the context of the puzzle, the number of letters required, or even regional variations. It's best to use the given letters in the grid to narrow down the possibilities.

crossword clue sedimentary rock – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "sedimentary rock," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.

Solutions for "crossword clue sedimentary rock" by Letter Count

4 Letters

COAL: A combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock, formed from the remains of plant matter over millions of years.

5 Letters

SHALE: A fine-grained, clastic sedimentary rock composed of mud that is a mix of flakes of clay minerals and tiny fragments of other minerals, especially quartz and calcite.

9 Letters

SANDSTONE: A clastic sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized mineral grains or rock fragments, often cemented together by silica, calcite, or iron oxides.

LIMESTONE: A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), usually in the form of calcite or aragonite.

More About "sedimentary rock"

Sedimentary rocks are one of the three main rock types, along with igneous and metamorphic rocks. They form on or near the Earth's surface through the accumulation and lithification of sediments. These sediments can be fragments of pre-existing rocks (clastic), remains of dead organisms (organic), or precipitates from solutions (chemical).

The process of formation typically involves weathering and erosion of existing rocks, transport of the weathered material by water, wind, or ice, deposition in a new location, and finally, compaction and cementation (lithification) to form solid rock. Examples like sandstone, shale, and limestone are common and represent different types of sediment and formation environments. Understanding these fundamental geological concepts can often provide helpful context for related crossword clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Context: For clues like "sedimentary rock," consider if the puzzle has a theme (e.g., geology, science). This can narrow down potential answers.
Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters required in the grid with the potential answers. Our page is designed to help you quickly find answers by length.
Look for Cross-References: Use intersecting letters from already solved clues to confirm or eliminate possibilities. If you have an 'S' in the third position, it rules out many words immediately.
Consider Synonyms and Specific Examples: Crossword clues often look for synonyms or specific examples of a broader category. For "sedimentary rock," think about specific types you know.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common type of sedimentary rock?

Shale is considered the most common type of sedimentary rock, making up a significant portion of the Earth's crust. It forms from compacted mud and clay.

Can sedimentary rocks contain fossils?

Yes, sedimentary rocks are the only type of rock that typically contains fossils. This is because fossils form when organic remains are buried and preserved within the layers of sediment before they turn into rock, a process that would destroy them in igneous or metamorphic rock formation.

What is the difference between clastic and chemical sedimentary rocks?

Clastic sedimentary rocks, like sandstone or shale, are formed from fragments of pre-existing rocks. Chemical sedimentary rocks, like limestone (from shells or precipitates) or rock salt, form from the precipitation of minerals from water solutions.