Organic Sedimentary Rocks


Phosphorites - Rocks rich in organic phosphates - the main mineral is Apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH) the sources for these include bones, manure, and organic remains.
Coals - masses partly decomposed plant remains. there are 3 major sedimentary types:
  
Peat
Comprressed masses in which the individual sticks and peices are still visible and identifiable.
Lignite(brown coal)
Increased compaction eliminates identifiable remains and removes liquids and gases.
Bituminuous
Fully compacted and with <25% volitiles - the standard commercial coal.
Oil Shales - organic rich shales that can be baked to release the liquid hydrocarbons trapped in and between the clay minerals.

 
First Prev Next Last

Copyright William C. Wilson 1997
Send email towcw@dragonlogic.com

Website created: January 22, 1998
Website last updated: November 18, 2000