Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism. It is composed primarily of the mineral calcite (CaCO3) and usually contains other minerals, such as clay minerals, micas, quartz, pyrite, iron oxides, and graphite.
What happens when limestone turns into marble?
Marble is a metamorphic rock formed by the alteration of limestone by heat and pressure. The calcite in the limestone changes and fossils and layering in the original limestone disappear as interlocking grains grow. If the limestone is pure, a white marble is formed.
Can limestone be metamorphosed into marble?
This process is called metamorphism. All rocks can be metamorphosed, and there are many different types of metamorphic rock. Limestone can change into marble, shale and mudstones into slate, and igneous rocks like granite can turn into gneiss.
