Carbonate sedimentary rocks, primarily limestones (calcite-based) and dolostones (dolomite-based), originate through the accumulation of biogenic remains and chemical precipitation. Unlike clastic rocks that derive from the weathering of pre-existing landmasses, carbonates are largely formed "in-place" within marine environments through biological mediation. Fundamental Origins
The "extra quality" or purity of a carbonate deposit depends on three environmental "sweet spots": Warm Water:
Key questions in their origin include: How do micrite envelopes form? What controls the transition from aragonite to calcite? Why do some ancient limestones show evidence of microbial mats while others are pure reef talus? origin of carbonate sedimentary rocks pdf extra quality
The origin of carbonate sedimentary rocks is a complex process that involves the accumulation and cementation of carbonate minerals from a variety of sources. The most common sources of carbonate minerals are biogenic, chemical, and detrital processes.
Characteristics of Carbonate Sedimentary Rocks Interlibrary loan – Scan the relevant chapters yourself
This is the dominant mode for most Phanerozoic limestones.
Skeletal Grains (Bioclasts): Derived from the shells or skeletons of organisms like corals, mollusks, and algae. Characteristics of Carbonate Sedimentary Rocks 3
Conclusion