Lithification — Science definition
The combined process of compaction (squeezing sediment together) and cementation (gluing sediment grains with natural mineral 'glue') that turns loose sediment into solid sedimentary rock.
Where it is taught
- The Rock Cycle — Rocks, Landscapes & Water, Earth & Space Science, Grade 9
In use
Bury that sediment deep enough and the weight of everything above squeezes it together while mineral-rich water glues the grains into stone, a two-step process called lithification that produces sedimentary rock.
The Rock Cycle