sedimentary
Limestone
Sedimentary Rock (Primarily Calcite: CaCO3)
Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale, Color: Varies from white, gray, yellow to brown, Luster: Earthy to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline or fine-grained, Cleavage: None distinct in rock form, Specific gravity: 2.7
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale, Color: Varies from white, gray, yellow to brown, Luster: Earthy to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline or fine-grained, Cleavage: None distinct in rock form, Specific gravity: 2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accumulation of skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as coral, algal, and foraminifera, as well as the chemical precipitation of calcium carbonate from water. Geologically ranges from Precambrian to modern times.
Uses & applications
Used extensively in construction (as aggregate for road bases, concrete, and building stone), agriculture (soil conditioning), and manufacturing (cement, glass, and paper).
Geological facts
Limestone often contains fossils of ancient marine life. Famous architectural structures like the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Empire State Building utilize limestone in their construction.
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.
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