sedimentary cycle A cycle which comprises the weathering of an existing rock, followed by the erosion of minerals, their transport and deposition, then burial. First-cycle sediments are characterized by the presence of less resistant minerals and rock fragments. If this material is reworked through a second cycle, the less resistant minerals will be eliminated, or altered to more stable products. The more sedimentary cycles that a sediment has passed through, the more mature it will become and it will be dominated by well-rounded, resistant minerals (see RESISTATE MINERAL).

sedimentary cycle The weathering of an existing rock, followed by the erosion of minerals from it, their transport and deposition, and their burial. First-cycle sediments contain less resistant minerals and rock fragments. If this material is reworked through a second cycle, the less resistant minerals will be eliminated or altered to more stable products. The more sedimentary cycles a sediment has passed through, the more mature it will become and it will be dominated by well-rounded, resistant minerals.