Sedimentary rocks form when sand, mud, and pebbles create layers on top of each other. The pressure builds as each layer is added and eventually the layers turn to rock.

Question

What role does energy play in the formation of sedimentary rock?
A.
Rain provides the energy needed to bring sand, mud, and pebbles to one location where energy from the Sun changes them to rock.
B.
Energy from the Sun creates the cycle of rain and wind that causes erosion to produce sedimentation.
C.
The heat from the Sun melts sand, mud, and pebbles which then cool and solidify into rock that can be broken down again through erosion.
D.
Rain cools sand, mud, and pebbles into hard layers that solidify using energy from the Sun.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. Energy from the Sun creates the cycle of rain and wind that causes erosion to produce sedimentation.

This option accurately describes the role of energy in the sedimentary rock formation process. The Sun's energy drives the water cycle and atmospheric circulation, which contribute to erosion, transportation, and deposition of sediments that eventually form sedimentary rocks.