Carbonatites are rare igneous rocks primarily composed of carbonate minerals, such as calcite and dolomite. They typically form from the melting of carbon-rich materials deep within the Earth's mantle and are often associated with volcanic activity. These rocks can contain valuable minerals, including rare earth elements and other industrially important resources. The formation of carbonatites is linked to specific geological processes, such as mantle plumes and rifting. They are found in various locations around the world, including regions like East Africa and Greenland. Studying carbonatites helps scientists understand the Earth's composition and the processes that shape its geology.