Bedrock

nounStandard termMining

The solid, intact rock layer that lies beneath soil, gravel, and other loose surface materials.

Bedrock is the continuous, solid rock horizon situated beneath the unconsolidated surface sediment or overburden. Geologists and drillers must reach this layer to anchor foundations or to begin core sampling for deep mineral deposits. Its depth varies wildly depending on the local topography and weathering.

Heard on the job

The drillers hit bedrock at fourteen meters and are switching to a diamond coring bit.