[Wallace] 



STUDY OF DOLOMITIZATION 



149 



would remain as explained under the different cases: but instead of 

 the minerals calcite and dolomite, the solid phases would represent 

 minerals varying in composition from A to p and from AB to q 

 respectively. We do not know how such mixed crystals would react 

 under the tests used to distinguish calcite and dolomite. Again the 

 solubility of the components in the mixed crystal may be somewhat 

 different from that of the isolated components.* For instance, in a 

 crystal of composition x it is impossible, though not highly probable, 



Figure 6 



B 



that the CaCOg may dissolve more readily than the MgCOg, and that 

 the composition of the crystal may consequently approach more closely 

 that of dolomite. In this way dolomitization could proceed as Linck 

 considers that it actually does take place. 



It is of importance in connection with the problem of the process 

 of dolomitization, that the limiting values x and y he determined, and 

 that the solubility of those mixed crystals be ascertained under con- 

 ditions that resemble as closely as possible those obtaining in nature. 

 There is required an experimental study of this aspect of the question, 

 and such an investigation is now under consideration. 



*Muthmann u. Kuntze: Zeitschr. f. Kryst. u.s.w., 23, 1894, 368. 



