Rock Identifier
Limestone (Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)) — sedimentary
sedimentary

Limestone

Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, colors range from white to gray and tan, earthy to vitreous luster, and effervesces 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 in dilute hydrochloric acid.

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation of skeletal fragments of marine organisms or chemical precipitation in shallow marine environments over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Widely used in construction, production of cement, agriculture to neutralize acidic soils, and as dimension stone.

Geological facts

Limestone often contains well-preserved fossils and forms dramatic karst landscapes featuring caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its reaction to acid and layered sedimentary appearance, commonly found in quarries and regional sedimentary rock formations worldwide.