sedimentary
Limestone
Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, colors range from white to gray and tan, earthy to vitreous luster, and effervesces strongly in dilute hydrochloric acid.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, colors range from white to gray and tan, earthy to vitreous luster, and effervesces strongly in dilute hydrochloric acid.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of marine organism skeletal fragments and chemical precipitation in shallow, warm marine environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in the manufacture of cement, as a building stone, in agricultural soil treatment, and as a primary ingredient in lime production.
Geological facts
Limestone frequently contains well-preserved fossils of ancient marine life and makes up about 10 percent of the total volume of all sedimentary rocks on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its characteristic reaction with acid and relatively soft texture; commonly found in sedimentary basins and ancient sea beds worldwide.
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Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
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