What are clastic sedimentary rocks primarily formed from?

Clastic sedimentary rocks are primarily formed from broken pieces of other rocks. These fragments, known as clasts, are created through processes such as weathering and erosion, which break down larger rocks into smaller particles. These clasts are then transported by agents such as water, wind, or ice and eventually accumulate in layers. Over time, the pressure from overlying materials compacts these particles together, and minerals precipitate from the water in the pore spaces, cementing the clasts into a solid rock.

In contrast, the other processes mentioned do not pertain to the formation of clastic sedimentary rocks. For example, while mineral crystallization from solutions does lead to the formation of certain rocks (like chemical sedimentary rocks), it does not involve the clastic process. Similarly, organic remains form organic sedimentary rocks, such as coal and certain limestones, while evaporated minerals from lakes are indicative of evaporitic sedimentary rocks. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique characteristics of clastic sedimentary rocks.