A "parent rock," also known as "bedrock," is the original rock from which soil and sediment are formed. It can be igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic in nature. Over time, weathering and erosion break down the parent rock into smaller particles, contributing to the formation of different types of soil. The characteristics of the parent rock influence the properties of the resulting soil, such as its mineral content and drainage capabilities. For example, granite as a parent rock can lead to sandy soils, while limestone can produce more fertile soils. Understanding parent rock is essential in fields like geology and agriculture.