carbonate geology

Carbonate geology studies rocks primarily composed of carbonate minerals, primarily calcite and aragonite, which are derived from biological processes or precipitation from water. Common examples include limestone and marble. These rocks often form in shallow marine environments where organisms like corals and mollusks produce calcium carbonate. Carbonate rocks are significant for understanding Earth’s history, as they can record past climates, environments, and biological activity. They are also important in natural resource exploration, such as oil and gas reservoirs, and serve as aquifers for groundwater.