The correct answer to the question is:
B. lithification
Explanation:
1. Lithification is the process through which loose sediments (such as sand, mud, or other particles) are compacted and cemented together to form solid sedimentary rocks.
2. This process involves the compression of sediments due to the weight of overlying layers, which squeezes out water and air, causing the particles to bind together.
3. Cementation occurs when minerals dissolved in water crystallize and act as a glue to hold the sediment grains together.
4. As lithification progresses, the loose sediment gradually transforms into a coherent and cohesive sedimentary rock, preserving characteristics of the original sediments.
