513,410 views
32 votes
32 votes
What type of rock is marble? Describe how a piece of marble is likely to change over several years. (8 points)

100 PTS

User Dragonjet
by
2.7k points

1 Answer

19 votes
19 votes

The fundamental distinction between limestone and marble is that limestone is a sedimentary rock made up of of calcium carbonate fossils, whereas marble is a metamorphic rock made up mostly of calcium carbonate fossils. Marble is a metamorphic rock, meaning it has undergone a transformation or metamorphosis. This occurs when natural heat and pressure inside or on the surface of the Earth alters a rock over thousands of years. Formed when limestone (another rock) is subjected to extreme heat and pressure. It's largely made up of calcite, with pyrite, quartz, iron oxide, and granite thrown in for good measure. Marble is meant to deteriorate over time due to acid rain and weathering.

User ArmanHunanyan
by
3.1k points