Limestone is a sedimentary rock.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock found near the surface of the Earth's crust. It tends to acidify and erode when in contact with water containing dissolved carbon dioxide or a weak carbonic acid. The main constituent of limestone is calcium carbonate. Limestone exhibits several unique physical properties.
Constituents of Limestone
Limestone is an aggregate. The main constituent is calcium carbonate, or calcite. Shells, bones, and other calcium-laden materials sink to the bottom of the ocean and settle on top of each other. Years of pressure from the buildup of material and the water pushing down on the layers causes the bottom material to solidify and form limestone.
Physical Properties
Limestone is generally impervious, rather hard, and compact. It is generally relatively fine-grained and has a density that usually ranges from 2.5 to 2.7 kg/cubic centimeter. Some limestone is able to be polished and thus becomes marketable. Limestone ranges from white to off-white in color.
Natural Characterictics
There are many visually apparent characteristics of limestone. Streaks of calcite, preserved fossils, or shells and pits or holes are often present. The rock may also contain iron stains, open-textured spaces, and reedy formations. Each of these character traits lends to the usefulness and marketability of limestone.
Tags: calcium carbonate, limestone Physical, Limestone sedimentary, Limestone sedimentary rock, main constituent, ranges from, sedimentary rock
