Name: __________________________________________ Date: _______________ Period: ________
Lab: Sedimentary Rocks
All sedimentary rocks can be classified into one groups: clastic, chemical, or organic.
Complete the following activity to learn about the classification of sedimentary rocks.
Lab Preview:
What will you be doing in this lab? ___________________________________________
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Purpose: To examine and identify different types of sedimentary rocks.
Materials: sedimentary rock samples, hydrochloric acid, magnifying glass, textbook
Procedure:
1. Use the chart on the next page to record your observations and data.
2. In the Observations column, record observations about each rock.
3. Determine the sediment size of each mineral sample using Table 2 on page ______.
Record your answer (clay, silt, sand, or gravel) in the sediment size column.
4. Using your book and notes, hypothesize the types of minerals and/or fossils for each rock.
You may also use a drop of HCl to check for the presence of Calcite. Record in the
Minerals/Fossils Present column.
5. Based on your data in the other columns, decide whether each rock is clastic, chemical, or
organic. Record your choice in the Type of Sedimentary Rock column.
6. When your data table is complete, answer all questions using complete sentences. Then
clean up your lab area.
Rock Name
Observations
Minerals or Fossils
Present
Sediment Size
Clastic,
Chemical, or
Organic
1. Conglomerate
2. Sandstone
3. Shale
4. Limestone
5. Rock Salt
Conclusions:
1. Why did you test the rocks with hydrochloric acid? Which mineral reacts with HCl?
2. What is needed in order for sedimentary rock fragments to form?
3. The mineral Halite forms by evaporation. Would you classify Halite at clastic, chemical, or
organic?
4. How do you classify sedimentary rocks?