sedimentary layer
Geological time slice
A sedimentary layer is a distinct horizontal band of rock or soil formed by the accumulation and compression of sediment over time.
Geologists read these layers like pages in Earth's history—each stratum recording environmental conditions when it was deposited: The fossil was found in a sedimentary layer dating to the Jurassic period.
- laminationBonding sheets together
- limestoneCarbonate sedimentary rock
- sandstoneCemented grain sediment
- depositionFormal testimony under oath
- strataParallel geological layers
unconformities · deep time · compaction · geological formation · cementation · river delta · cross-bedding · shale · floodplain · continental shelf · erosion · silt · outcrop · riverbed · mud flat · lake bed · epoch · fossil record
- geologybedrock, fault lines, faults, rock, basalt
- extinctionmass extinction, dodo, extinct, extinction event, extinction rate
- desert geologyslot canyon, slot canyons, dunes, ergs, mesa
- biostratigraphyzonation, faunal succession
sedimentary layerigneous rock
Crystallized molten material
metamorphic rock · volcanic rock · lava flow · granite · basalt
sedimentary layerbedrock
Solid stone underground
topsoil · overburden · mantle · unconformity
sedimentary layerdike
Wall against flooding
pluton · batholith · sill · volcanic plug · magma chamber