litifikáció

Litifikáció is a geological process by which unconsolidated sediments, such as sand, silt, and clay, are transformed into solid rock. This transformation occurs through a combination of physical and chemical changes that take place over time, often deep within the Earth's crust. The primary mechanisms involved are compaction and cementation.

Compaction is the initial stage where the weight of overlying sediments presses the grains closer together, reducing the pore space between them and squeezing out any water. As sediments are buried deeper, the pressure increases, further compacting the material.

Cementation follows or accompanies compaction. Dissolved minerals in groundwater, such as silica, calcite, or iron oxides, precipitate out of the water and fill the remaining pore spaces. These mineral cements act like glue, binding the sediment grains together and hardening the material into rock. Examples of rocks formed through litifikáció include sandstone from sand, shale from mudstone, and conglomerate from gravel. The specific minerals present and the degree of compaction and cementation determine the final type and strength of the sedimentary rock.