Sedimentary petrology / Maurice E. Tucker, Stuart J. Jones.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Sedimentary Petrology is a comprehensive introductory text that explains the origin, composition, classification, and interpretation of sedimentary rocks. The book integrates field observations, petrographic analysis, and modern geochemical approaches to show how sediments are produced, transported, deposited, and altered through time. It begins by outlining the fundamental components of sedimentary rocks, including mineralogy, textures, and sedimentary structures, and explains how these features record the conditions under which the rocks formed. The processes of weathering, erosion, transport, and deposition are discussed in detail, linking sediments to their source areas and depositional environments. A major portion of the book is devoted to the study of different rock types, particularly siliciclastic rocks (such as sandstones, conglomerates, and mudrocks) and carbonate rocks (like limestones and dolomites). It explains their composition, classification, and the environmental conditions responsible for their formation. Additional coverage includes special sedimentary deposits such as evaporites, ironstones, phosphorites, and organic-rich rocks (e.g., coal and petroleum-related sediments). The text also emphasizes diagenesis, the physical, chemical, and biological changes that occur after deposition, showing how sediments are transformed into solid rock. Modern analytical techniques and recent developments—such as microporosity studies, microbial processes, and geochemical modeling—are incorporated to provide an updated understanding of sedimentary systems. Overall, the book presents sedimentary petrology as essential for interpreting Earth’s history, including past environments, climate changes, and natural resources. It is designed primarily for undergraduate students but also serves as a useful reference for advanced study and professional geologists.