Dolomite
A calcium magnesium carbonate common in CI chondrites and in the Ryugu and Bennu samples.
Key facts
- Formula
- CaMg(CO3)2
- Family
- Carbonates, sulphates, salts and weathering products
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
What it is
Dolomite is a carbonate with calcium and magnesium in alternating layers. It forms from water rich in magnesium.
Where it is found
It occurs as grains in CI chondrites such as Orgueil and Ivuna, in Ryugu and Bennu samples, and in some CM chondrites. Ryugu's dolomite gave temperatures for the water of roughly 40 °C or less.
How it is recognised
It is identified by its chemistry under an electron microscope.
Did you know?
Did you know?
The Dolomites of northern Italy are made largely of this mineral and are named after Déodat de Dolomieu, who studied it.
Did you know?
Carbonates in Ryugu show that its parent body held liquid water about 5 million years after the Solar System formed.