---
title: "Limestone — AP Environmental Science Definition & Uses"
description: "Limestone is calcium carbonate rock added to acidic soil to raise pH and restore fertility, a sustainable agriculture strategy tested in AP Enviro Topic 5.15."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/limestone"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Limestone — AP Environmental Science Definition & Uses

## Definition

Limestone is a sedimentary rock that forms from the accumulation of shells, coral, and other organic materials. It is primarily composed of calcium carbonate.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.15 Sustainable Agriculture](/ap-enviro/unit-5/sustainable-agriculture/study-guide/NstFolnzQv41vpfvpFNn)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Karst Topography: Karst topography refers to landscapes formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks like limestone. It creates unique features such as sinkholes and underground caves.
- [Acid Rain](/ap-enviro/key-terms/acid-rain): Acid rain occurs when pollutants in the air react with water vapor, forming acidic compounds that can dissolve limestone and other rocks over time.
- [Fossil Fuels](/ap-enviro/key-terms/fossil-fuels): Fossil fuels like coal and oil are derived from ancient plants and animals that were buried and transformed into rock-like substances, including some types of limestone.