What are small pieces of weathered rock called?

Small pieces of weathered rock are referred to as sediment. This term encompasses a variety of materials that have been broken down through the processes of weathering and erosion, which can include small rock fragments, minerals, and organic matter. Sediment can accumulate in different environments, such as river beds, lakes, and oceans, and plays a crucial role in geological processes, including sedimentation, which is the laying down of sediment in layers.

Soil, while composed of minerals, organic matter, and other components, is more than just the small pieces of weathered rock; it is a complex mixture that supports plant life. Clay is a specific type of sediment that consists of very fine particles, while sand is coarser than clay but still a form of sediment. Therefore, the most accurate term that captures all small pieces of weathered rock without specifying size or other characteristics is sediment.