Rocks are classified in order to communicate information about them. All classifications of limestones are arbitrary and they frequently overlap or do not fit ones particular needs. Since binocular microscopes or hand lenses are the tools that are commonly available to the explorationist, a practical classification should be based on descriptions using them. When these instruments are used, it is usually possible to identify the individual grains forming the rock. Thus most classifications require that the most significant sedimentary particle in the rock be described. For instance, if a rock is composed of ooids, it is termed and oolitic limestone. If the limestone also contains a minor element such as skeletal fragments, then it is called a skeletal-oolitic limestone.
Rocks are classified in order to communicate information about them. All classifications of limestones are arbitrary and they frequently overlap or do not fit ones particular needs. Since binocular microscopes or hand lenses are the tools that are commonly available to the explorationist, a practical classification should be based on descriptions using them. When these instruments are used, it is usually possible to identify the individual grains forming the rock. Thus most classifications require that the most significant sedimentary particle in the rock be described. For instance, if a rock is composed of ooids, it is termed and oolitic limestone. If the limestone also contains a minor element such as skeletal fragments, then it is called a skeletal-oolitic limestone.
Rocks are classified in order to communicate information about them. All classifications of limestones are arbitrary and they frequently overlap or do not fit ones particular needs. Since binocular microscopes or hand lenses are the tools that are commonly available to the explorationist, a practical classification should be based on descriptions using them. When these instruments are used, it is usually possible to identify the individual grains forming the rock. Thus most classifications require that the most significant sedimentary particle in the rock be described. For instance, if a rock is composed of ooids, it is termed and oolitic limestone. If the limestone also contains a minor element such as skeletal fragments, then it is called a skeletal-oolitic limestone.