What is the difference between carbonate and limestone?

Definitions

carbonate

- Referring to a chemical compound that contains the carbonate ion (CO3^2-).

- Describing the process of adding carbon dioxide to a liquid to form bubbles or fizz.

- Talking about the action of converting into a carbonate compound through a chemical reaction.

limestone

- Referring to a sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate.

- Describing a type of rock that is often used as a building material or for making cement.

- Talking about the process of forming limestone through the accumulation of shells, coral, and other organic materials.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both carbonate and limestone are related to the compound calcium carbonate.
• 2. Both carbonate and limestone are used in various industries such as construction and manufacturing.
• 3. Both carbonate and limestone are formed through natural processes over long periods of time.

What is the difference?

• 1. Composition: Carbonate refers to a chemical compound, while limestone is a specific type of sedimentary rock.
• 2. Usage: Carbonate can be used as a noun or verb to describe a compound or a process, while limestone is primarily used as a noun to refer to a type of rock.
• 3. Formation: Carbonate can be formed through chemical reactions, while limestone is formed through the accumulation of organic materials over time.
• 4. Applications: Carbonate has a broader range of applications in various industries, including food and beverages, while limestone is mainly used in construction and manufacturing.
• 5. Physical properties: Carbonate does not have a specific physical appearance, while limestone is typically light-colored and may contain visible fossils or shell fragments.

📌

Remember this!

Carbonate and limestone are related terms that involve calcium carbonate. However, carbonate refers to a chemical compound or a process involving the addition of carbon dioxide, while limestone specifically refers to a type of sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate. Carbonate has a broader range of applications, while limestone is mainly used in construction and manufacturing.