Mudstone is a type of sedimentary rock that forms from the compaction of fine particles, primarily clay and silt. It is characterized by its soft, fine-grained texture and typically appears in shades of gray, brown, or red. Mudstone is often found in environments like river deltas and lake beds, where sediment accumulates over time. This rock is important in geology because it can contain fossils and provide insights into past environments. Mudstone is also used in various applications, including construction and as a source of shale gas, which is extracted for energy production.