Evaporation and Precipitation
Evaporites are rock units that are most likely formed from chemical precipitates. These rocks are formed when minerals precipitate out of solution as water evaporates, leaving behind minerals like halite or gypsum.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock that forms as a result of chemical processes. It is composed primarily of calcite or aragonite minerals, which precipitate out of solution in bodies of water. Over time, these deposits solidify to form the limestone rock.
Dolostone is classified as a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of the mineral dolomite. It forms through the chemical alteration of limestone by magnesium-rich fluids.
precipitation from seawater
You might expect a deposit of rock salt or rock gypsum to have formed in a shallow, evaporating basin such as a salt flat or a desert play. These minerals are often deposited when water evaporates, leaving behind the salt or gypsum crystals.
Rock salt and gypsum are not varieties of dolomite.
Evaporites are rock units that are most likely formed from chemical precipitates. These rocks are formed when minerals precipitate out of solution as water evaporates, leaving behind minerals like halite or gypsum.
Most rock gypsum is formed by the evaporation of seawater in shallow marine environments. As water evaporates, it leaves behind dissolved minerals, including calcium sulfate, which crystallizes to form gypsum. This process can occur in lagoons or arid regions where evaporation rates are high. Over time, accumulated gypsum deposits can be compacted and lithified into rock gypsum.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock that forms as a result of chemical processes. It is composed primarily of calcite or aragonite minerals, which precipitate out of solution in bodies of water. Over time, these deposits solidify to form the limestone rock.
Dolostone is a rock. Dolomite is the mineral often composing dolostone.
Dolostone is classified as a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of the mineral dolomite. It forms through the chemical alteration of limestone by magnesium-rich fluids.
Gypsum
precipitation from seawater
Gypsum is an extrusive sedimentary rock formed from the evaporation of seawater.
Gypsum is formed underwater, usually between layers of shale and limestone. When the water evaporates and the area dries, the gypsum becomes solid "rock" gypsum.
No, dolostone is not an igneous rock. Dolostone is a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of the mineral dolomite, which forms through the chemical alteration of limestone.
Gypsum is formed underwater, usually between layers of shale and limestone. When the water evaporates and the area dries, the gypsum becomes solid "rock" gypsum.