Which type of fluid can sedimentary rocks with high porosity typically hold?

Prepare for the Fundamentals of Geology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your geology test!

Sedimentary rocks with high porosity are capable of holding fluids like water or oil due to their structural characteristics. High porosity indicates that the rock has a significant amount of open spaces or voids that can store fluids. This attribute is particularly relevant for sedimentary rocks such as sandstone, which can effectively act as reservoirs for both groundwater and hydrocarbons.

Water is commonly stored in these rocks as it can migrate through the interconnected pores, making aquifers out of them. Oil can also accumulate in sedimentary rocks, especially in geological formations that are source rocks or have been subjected to conditions conducive for oil generation and storage. The ability of these rocks to store fluids is crucial for many environmental and industrial applications, including water supply and the extraction of resources like petroleum.

Other options, such as coal and granite, do not fit the criteria; coal is primarily a solid organic material and thus does not pertain to fluid storage, while granite, being an igneous rock, typically has low porosity and does not hold fluids effectively. Therefore, water or oil represents the most accurate choice for the type of fluid that sedimentary rocks with high porosity can hold.

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