In geographical terms, what does "sandstone" refer to?

Sandstone is classified as a sedimentary rock, which forms from the accumulation and compaction of sand particles over time. The process typically involves the deposition of sand in various environments, such as riverbeds, beaches, or deserts. Over time, these layers of sand become cemented together by minerals that precipitate from water, turning the loose sand into solid rock.

The definition of sandstone indicates an essential characteristic of sedimentary rocks: they are often formed from pre-existing materials through weathering and erosion. This contrasts with igneous rocks, which originate from cooled magma or lava, and metamorphic rocks, which are formed from existing rocks subjected to heat and pressure. Volcanic rocks are also a specific type of igneous rock that forms from solidified lava. By understanding that sandstone is a sedimentary rock formed through the processes of compression and cementation of sand, one can clearly differentiate it from these other rock types.