NON METAL

What is limestone?

Limestone (calcium carbonate CaCO3) is a type of carbonate sedimentary rock

which is the main source of the material lime. Limestone is a sedimentary rock
composed principally of calcium carbonate (calcite) or the double carbonate of
calcium and magnesium (dolomite).

COMPOSITION :
It is composed mostly of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different
crystal forms of CaCO3.

FORMATION:

Limestone forms when these minerals precipitate out of water containing dissolved
calcium. This can take place through both biological and nonbiological processes,
though biological processes, such as the accumulation of corals and shells in the
sea, have likely been more important for the last 540 million years.Limestone often
contains fossils which provide scientists with information on ancient environments
and on the evolution of life.

How is limestone formed?

Limestone is formed in two ways. It can be formed with the help of living organisms
and by evaporation. Ocean-dwelling organisms such as oysters, clams, mussels and
coral use calcium carbonate (CaCO3) found in seawater to create their shells and
bones