What are two clastic sedimentary rocks and how did each form?

Two common clastic sedimentary rocks are sandstone and shale. Sandstone forms from the cementation of sand-sized grains, typically in environments like riverbeds or beaches where sand accumulates and compacts over time. Shale, on the other hand, is composed of fine-grained particles like silt and clay that accumulate in quieter water settings such as lakes or deep ocean floors, where they gradually compact and lithify into rock. Both rocks illustrate the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition in sedimentary environments.