What are Carbonates? Carbonate minerals are salts or esters of carbonic acid that contain the ion, CO32-. They make up over 15% of all sedimentary rocks on Earth and are vital compounds found throughout the geological and biological realms. Its rocks like limestone, dolostone, and marble are formed from the accumulation and compaction of shallow marine organisms, coral, algae, and ... https://www.zupyak.com/p/4397113/t/understanding-the-complex-nature-of-carbonates