Limestones: An Essential User Guide to Sediments That Dissolve, Precipitate and Grow

Explore the fascinating world of carbonate sedimentary rocks in this comprehensive lecture by Professor Cathy Hollis from the University of Manchester. Delve into the formation processes of limestones through the accumulation of marine organisms and chemical precipitation of calcium carbonate. Discover how these rocks serve as exceptional records of evolutionary and climatic changes throughout Earth's history. Learn about the unique properties of carbonate sediments, including their reactivity in surface water and their complex nature despite simple mineralogy. Understand the historical and modern importance of carbonate rocks in various industries, from construction to hydrocarbon extraction. Examine their potential in addressing climate change challenges, including their use in carbon storage and geothermal heat production. Gain insights into how ancient carbonate systems can provide valuable lessons for predicting and mitigating the effects of anthropogenic environmental impact on modern ecosystems.