sedimentary
Limestone
Sedimentary Rock (Primarily CaCO3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: White, gray, tan, yellow; Luster: Earthy to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline or fine-grained; Specific gravity: 2.7
- Hardness
- 3 on Mohs scale
- Color
- White, gray, tan, yellow
- Luster
- Earthy to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on Mohs scale; Color: White, gray, tan, yellow; Luster: Earthy to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline or fine-grained; Specific gravity: 2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of skeletal fragments of marine organisms like coral, algal, and foraminifera, or through chemical precipitation in shallow marine environments over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction (as aggregate for roads, concrete, and cement), agriculture (soil conditioning), and industrial manufacturing.
Geological facts
Limestone often contains fossils of ancient sea creatures. Famous geological formations like the White Cliffs of Dover are made almost entirely of chalk, a soft variety of limestone.
Field identification & locations
Can be easily identified in the field by its characteristic effervescence (fizzing) when a drop of weak hydrochloric acid or vinegar is applied due to the release of carbon dioxide gas.
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