Definition
ROCKS formed by the accumulation of SEDIMENT in water (aqueous DEPOSITS) or from air (eolian DEPOSITS). The SEDIMENTS may consist of rock fragments or particles of various sizes (conglomerate, sandstone, shale); of the remains or products of animals or plants (certain LIMESTONES and coal); of the product of chemical action or of evaporation (salt, gypsum, etc.); or of mixture of these materials.