Determining the difference between limestone CaCO3 and dolomite Ca,Mg(CO3) in the field can be difficult. A chemical analysis is required or if you apply a few drops of HCL acid limestone will fizz (effervesce) while dolomite will not unless it is powdered.
Limestone and dolomite are formed by an accumulation of sediments. The best sources of dolomite formations are in magnesium rich ground waters with a high salinity. The rocks are formed from the remains of shells, coral, algal, fecal debris and microskeletons which are deposited on the seabed and compressed to form solid rock. Limestone and dolomite are used in ornamental stone, crushed for driveways, fertilizer or in the production of concrete. To complete the logging requirements a tape measure is needed and answering the following questions:
1) What is the height of the dolomite? 2) What is the average width? 3) Color? 4) Find the largest gastropod fossil (more commonly known as snails). This is a coiled fossil on the back side of the monument. What is the diameter of the gastropod measured in inches horizontally? Other fossils are also visible. Can you name any for bonus points?
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