Groundwater Erosion & Deposition Chapter 10 Section 2
Most groundwater contains carbonic acid This acidic water then “attacks” carbonate rocks (Limestone)
Caves A natural underground opening with a connection to Earth’s surface Formed when groundwater dissolves limestone Develop in the zone of saturation (just below the water table)
Mammoth Caves (Kentucky) Carlsbad Caverns (New Mexico)
Sinkholes A depression in the ground caused by the collapse of a cave Or by the direct dissolution of bedrock by acidic rain or moist soil
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Hard Water Water that contains high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and iron Problem in the Home: Clog water pipes Soap doesn’t bubble
Natural Deposits Stalactites Stalagmites Dripstone Columns Reed Flute Cave (China)
Stalactites Hang from cave ceiling When the water drops splash to the floor they gradually build…
Stalagmites Mounds on the floor built up underneath the stalactites They grow together to form…
Dripstone Columns – form when stalagmites and stalactites connect