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Download Introduction to Virginia*s Karst
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INTRODUCTION TO VIRGINIA’S KARST Caves, Sinkholes, and Carbonates, Oh My! Karst-Develops in Carbonate Rocks Carbonic Acid= CO2 + H2O Caves and Caverns • Formed from the chemical weathering of limestone and • • • • dolomite through carbonic acid. Cracks open and eventually widen to make a cave. Dripstone: Calcium carbonate deposited from solution as water enters a cave. Stalactites, Stalagmites, and Columns are all dripstones. Stalactites: Hang “tight” to the ceiling. Stalagmites: Push (mightily) hard through the ground. Column: Formed when stalactites and stalagmites meet. Stalactites and Stalagmites Columns Sinkholes • Caused by the collapse of cave or cavern roof. Usually from pumping more groundwater than can be recharged. • Sinking Streams • Where a river or stream enters a cave system and appears to “sink” into the ground.
