Sand

Sand is a naturally occurring, finely ground rock (diameter 0.02 to 2 millimetres) that is transported by wind or water and deposited in the form of beaches, dunes etc. Deserts are often composed of sand. The composition of sand varies according to local conditions. Much of the fine white sand found on coral island beaches, for example, is ground-up coral that has passed through the bowels of schools of trigger fish[?]. The commonest constituent of sand, however, is silica (silicon dioxide), often in the form of quartz. Some places have sands that contain iron or feldspar.

People, especially children, love to play with sand on a beach or in a sandbox. On beaches they make a mountain, a pit, canals, tunnels, a statue, a building (such as a sand castle), etc.

See also: List of minerals.