diagenetic processes

Diagenetic processes are natural changes that occur in sediments after they are deposited, transforming loose sediments into solid rock. This involves compression, mineral replacement, and chemical reactions driven by pressure, heat, and groundwater. These changes can include the cementing of particles to form sandstone or the alteration of organic material into fossil fuels like oil and gas. Essentially, diagenesis is the geological "maturation" process that preserves, modifies, or hardens sediments into sedimentary rock layers over time.