A model for the distribution of trace elements between calcite and dolomite

A crystal-growth model is proposed, which allows ions of a trace element to enter the Ca and Mg sites of dolomite in proportion to the size of the ions relative to that of Ca and Mg ions, and which assigns equal portions of the trace element to the Ca site of dolomite and the Ca site of associated calcite. The model produces calcite/dolomite distribution coefficients of 0.79 for Mn and 0.43 for Fe, which may be compared with 0.85 and 0.28 as observed in marble, and a distribution coefficient of 2.0 for Sr and Ba, which may be compared with observed values of 2.3 for Sr and 1.8 for Ba.