2
$\begingroup$

I read that limestone is made from the compaction of marine animals' bones. But, I am unable to find out why limestone could not have been produced from calcium occurring naturally (5th most abundant element in earth's crust) in the Earth Crust and in the mantle?

Is gypsum also produced from marine animal's bones?

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
1

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
$\begingroup$

Limestone is a sedimentary rock made up mainly of the mineral calcite (calcium carbonate). It may be made up of biogenic calcite such as shells or inorganic calcite deposited as fine grained "micrite" although some micrite may also have a biological origin.

Animals don't have bones made from gypsum so all gypsum deposits have non-biological origin.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ Where does the Calcium in Gypsum come from? Is it from the bones of marine animals? $\endgroup$
    – Porcupine
    Jan 30, 2018 at 11:13

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.