Which type of rocks are formed when particles of broken rock and organic materials are pressed and cemented together?

Sedimentary rocks are formed through a process that involves the accumulation and compaction of particles, which can include fragments of other rocks, minerals, and organic materials like shells, plant debris, and other biological matter. Over time, these particles are pressed together under pressure and can be cemented by minerals that precipitate from water moving through the sediment.

This process is fundamental to the formation of sedimentary rocks, which are often layered and can provide important information about the Earth's history, including past environments and biological activity. Common examples of sedimentary rocks include sandstone, limestone, and shale, each characterized by their specific composition and the conditions under which they formed.

The other types of rocks mentioned also have distinct formation processes. Igneous rocks form from the solidification of molten material (magma or lava), while metamorphic rocks arise from the transformation of existing rocks due to heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids. Basaltic rocks, a subtype of igneous rocks, are specifically formed from the solidification of lava that is rich in magnesium and iron, often found in volcanic regions.