Section 10.2

Explain how dripstone column is formed.

A dripstone column is formed when stalactites and stalagmite grow together

Groundwater is made up of mostly H2O ions, which is why it readily dissolves organic material T/ F?

False

Describe and classify the topography of the region shown?

It has a lot of sinkholes and sinking streams, making it karst topography

Describe how the caves form and fill with air.

Most caves are formed when groundwater dissolves limestone. The development of most caves begins in the zone of saturation just below the water table as groundwater infiltrates the cracks and joints of limestone formations, it gradually dissolves the adjacent rock and enlarges these passages to form an interconnected network of openings. As the water table is lowered, the cave system becomes filled with air.

Where do most caves form, relatives to the water table?

Most caves form below the water table

What is a sinkhole, and how is it formed?

Sinkhole: a depression in the ground caused by the collapse of a cave or by the direct dissolution of limestone by acidic water.

How does a sinking stream form?

Sinking streams are streams that disappear underground at a distinct sink point.

Carbon dioxide and water form what?

carbonic acid

Most ----- of significant size are formed in limestone by the dissolving activity of groundwater?

caves or cavern

A major role in the formation of limestone is?

dissolution and precipitation of calcium carbonate

Some caves are---, while others contain underground streams and lakes?

dry

A depression in the ground caused by the collapse of a cave or by the direct dissolution of bedrock by acidic rain or most soil is called?

sinkhole

What kind of limestone is found in dripstone formations?

travertine

What is a cave?

A natural underground opening with a connection to Earth's surface is called a cave or a cavern

Explain how stalactite is formed.

A stalactite is formed by dripping water. It is on the ceiling. When calcite evaporates, stalactite is formed

Explain how a stalagmite is formed.

A stalagmite is formed by water drops splashing to the floor of a cave. It is on the ground. When calcite drips, a stalagmite is formed

Under what circumstances might cave formation continue in the area?

New caves then form beneath the lowered water table. If the water table continues to drop, the thick limestone formations eventually become honeycombed with caves.

In order for caves to form in limestone, there must be?

groundwater percolating through the cracks and joints of limestone

What do we call water containing high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, or iron?

hard water

Limestone regions with sinkholes,sinks, and sinking streams are said to have?

karst topography