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What is marble in geological terms?

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Anonymous

16y ago
Updated: 8/17/2019

Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone or dolostone is exposed to high heat and pressure without undergoing melting. The heat and pressure causes the molecules (primarily calcite) to rearrange, forming a more tightly interlocking matrix. Impurities in the parent rock, such as surpentine or iron oxide, cause the characteristic banding that marble is famous for. Unfortunately, marble is not a very durable rock. Since it is composed primarily of calcite or dolomite, it is susceptible to acid erosion. This is often evident in cemetaries, where granite headstones remain sharp far longer than marble ones. Marble can be identified using a dilute HCl solution. Fizzing indicates calcite marble. Fizzing only occurs to dolomitic marble when acid is applied to the marble when powdered.

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16y ago

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Related Questions

Is marble an extrusive or an intrusive rock?

Neither. The terms intrusive and extrusive apply to igneous rocks; marble is metamorphic.


Is a marble rock ultramafic?

No. Mafic, felsic, and related terms apply to silicate igneous rocks. Marble is composed of carbonates, so such terms do not apply.


What is the marble rock formation?

Marble is metamorphosed limestone. The word is also used in the masonry trade to describe sedimentary rock that can be polished, but my first sentence is the geological answer.


Can granite become marble?

No, granite cannot become marble. Granite and marble are two distinct types of rocks formed under different geological conditions. Granite is an igneous rock formed from the cooling of molten rock, while marble is a metamorphic rock formed from the recrystallization of limestone.


Is marble natrul or man made?

Marble is a natural stone that is formed from the metamorphism of limestone, resulting in a crystalline texture. While there are synthetic alternatives that mimic the appearance of marble, true marble is a naturally occurring material. Its unique patterns and colors are a result of geological processes over millions of years.


What was marble before it was altered by heat and pressure?

Marble was originally limestone, a sedimentary rock made primarily of calcite minerals from the remains of marine organisms. Heat and pressure from geological processes turned the limestone into marble through the process of metamorphism.


What is 'marble' in Italian?

Marmo is an Italian equivalent of 'marble' in terms of the stone. It's a masculine gender noun that's pronounced 'MAHR-moh'. Pallina is an Italian equivalent of 'marble' in terms of the toy. It's a feminine gender noun that's pronounced 'pah-LEE-nah'.


Where is marble made?

Marble is a natural stone that is formed through the metamorphism of limestone under intense heat and pressure. It is typically found in mountainous regions with high levels of geological activity that facilitate the transformation of limestone into marble. Major producers of marble include countries such as Italy, China, India, Turkey, and Spain.


If so can water be a mineral?

In geological terms, a mineral must be a solid


What causes the color of marble?

The color of marble is primarily caused by the presence of various minerals and impurities within the calcite or dolomite that composes it. For instance, iron oxides can give marble a reddish or yellowish hue, while the presence of graphite can result in gray marble. Additionally, other minerals, such as serpentine or chlorite, can contribute to green or blue tones. The specific geological conditions and processes that formed the marble also play a role in its final coloration.


Is marble renewable or non renewable?

Marble is considered a non-renewable resource because it is a type of rock that is formed over long periods of time through natural geological processes. Once it is mined and used, it cannot be easily replaced within a human lifetime.


What is the correct chemical name for limestone or marble?

Marble is known as Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) in terms of chemical formula.