What type of rock is sandstone primarily classified as?

Sandstone is primarily classified as clastic rock because it is composed of individual grains or shards that have been cemented together. These grains are often derived from the weathering and erosion of pre-existing rocks and minerals, primarily quartz and feldspar. The term "clastic" refers to rocks that are formed from the accumulation of fragments of other rocks or minerals, which is exactly what occurs in the case of sandstone.

In the formation of sandstone, the process begins with the physical breakdown of rocks, leading to the production of particles. These particles are then transported by wind, water, or ice and eventually deposited in layers, where they may become compacted and cemented. This process illustrates the characteristics of sedimentary rocks, which are typically categorized into three types: clastic, chemical, and organic. Among these, sandstone specifically falls under the clastic category due to its detrital nature.

Understanding the classification helps explain the formation process and the environment in which sandstone is typically found, such as riverbeds, deserts, and beaches, where the grains can collect and consolidate over time.