Carbonate minerals are a group of minerals that contain the carbonate ion, CO3^2-. They are commonly found in sedimentary rocks and play a significant role in the Earth's carbon cycle. Examples of carbonate minerals include calcite, dolomite, and aragonite, which are often formed from the remains of marine organisms or through chemical precipitation.
These minerals are important for various industrial applications, including the production of cement and glass. They also serve as key indicators of geological processes and environmental conditions. Understanding carbonate minerals helps scientists study past climates and the formation of natural resources.