Clastic rocks refer to sedimentary rocks formed from the compression and cementation of various particles and fragments that come together through geological processes over time. Synonyms for clastic rocks might include mechanical sedimentary rocks, detrital rocks, or fragmental rocks. These terms all describe the same type of geological formation, but they emphasize different aspects of how the rocks are created. Mechanical sedimentary rocks, for example, suggest the physical forces at work in creating these rocks, while detrital rocks emphasize the origins of the rock fragments. Whatever term is used, these rocks offer valuable insights into the history of the Earth and the ways in which natural processes shape our planet over time.