Marine sediment classification

Marine sediment classification involves categorizing particles settled on the ocean floor based on their composition, size, and origin. Sediments are generally grouped into four main types: terrigenous (from land sources), biogenous (from once-living organisms like shells), hydrogenous (formed from chemical reactions in seawater), and cosmogenous (originating from space, such as meteorites). Sizes range from very tiny clay particles to larger sand and gravel. Understanding sediment types helps scientists learn about ocean processes, climate history, and the movement of nutrients and pollutants in marine environments.