Lithification: meaning, definitions and examples

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lithification

[lɪˌθɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

geology

The process by which sediments compact under pressure, expel connate fluids, and gradually become solid rock.

Synonyms

compaction, solidification.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lithification	Used predominantly in geology to describe the process by which sediments are transformed into solid rock. This process often involves compaction and cementation. The lithification of the sediment layer resulted in the formation of sandstone During lithification, minerals were deposited between the grains, binding them together
solidification	Used to describe the process by which a liquid turns into a solid. Commonly used in both geology, referring to the cooling and hardening of magma or lava, and in general science and everyday contexts. The solidification of magma forms igneous rock After the liquid metal cooled, the solidification process was complete
compaction	Refers to the process where sediments are pressed together under the weight of overlying sediments. This term is common in both geology and soil science. The compaction of the sediments reduced the pore space between the grains Compaction is a critical step in the formation of sedimentary rocks

Word

Description / Examples

lithification

Used predominantly in geology to describe the process by which sediments are transformed into solid rock. This process often involves compaction and cementation.

The lithification of the sediment layer resulted in the formation of sandstone
During lithification, minerals were deposited between the grains, binding them together

solidification

Used to describe the process by which a liquid turns into a solid. Commonly used in both geology, referring to the cooling and hardening of magma or lava, and in general science and everyday contexts.

The solidification of magma forms igneous rock
After the liquid metal cooled, the solidification process was complete

compaction

Refers to the process where sediments are pressed together under the weight of overlying sediments. This term is common in both geology and soil science.

The compaction of the sediments reduced the pore space between the grains
Compaction is a critical step in the formation of sedimentary rocks

Examples of usage

Lithification is an essential step in the formation of sedimentary rocks.
During lithification, loose sediments are transformed into solid rock.
The final stage of lithification involves the hardening of the sediment into rock.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek word 'lithos' meaning 'stone' and 'facere' meaning 'to make'.
It first appeared in geological literature in the late 19th century as scientists studied rock formation.

Geology

Lithification typically involves compaction and cementation, where layers of sediment are squeezed tight and filled with minerals.
The process can take thousands to millions of years, depending on environmental conditions.
Sedimentary rocks, like sandstone and limestone, are products of lithification.

Environmental Science

Factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of water play a crucial role in the lithification process.
Rivers and oceans are key areas where sediments accumulate and eventually lithify into rock layers.

History

Understanding lithification has helped geologists reconstruct Earth's history and changes over millions of years.
Ancient layers of lithified sediment can contain fossils, providing insights into past ecosystems and climate.

Cultural Significance

Sedimentary rocks formed by lithification are often used as building materials, evidencing a connection between nature and human architecture.
Many outdoor monuments and sites, like the Grand Canyon, display exposed layers that tell stories of lithification over time.

Translations

Translations of the word "lithification" in other languages:

🇵🇹 litificação

🇮🇳 शिलारूपण

🇩🇪 Verfestigung

🇮🇩 litifikasi

🇺🇦 літифікація

🇵🇱 lityfikacja

🇯🇵 石化 (せきか, sekika)

🇫🇷 lithification

🇪🇸 litificación

🇹🇷 litifikasyon

🇰🇷 암석화 (岩石化, amseokhwa)

🇸🇦 تحجر

🇨🇿 lithifikace

🇸🇰 lithifikácia

🇨🇳 岩化 (yán huà)

🇸🇮 litifikacija

🇮🇸 bergmyndun

🇰🇿 литификация

🇬🇪 ლითიფიკაცია

🇦🇿 litifikasiya

🇲🇽 litificación