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The carbonate minerals contain the anionic complex (CO3)2–, which is triangular in its coordination—i.e., with a carbon atom at the centre and an oxygen atom at each of the corners of an equilateral triangle. These anionic groups are strongly bonded individual units and do not share oxygen atoms with one another. The triangular carbonate groups are the basic building units of all carbonate minerals and are largely responsible for the properties particular to the class. Carbonates are frequently identified using the effervescence test with acid. The reaction that results in the characteristic fizz, 2H+ + CO2/3→ H2O + CO2, makes ...(100 of 14209 words)