Mammoth Cave

Lithosphere Mammoth cave was, and still is being formed by water that slowly erodes away at its limestone structure. The water continues to erode mainly in areas called sinkholes, where pockets of water lay. This cave began forming around 10 million years ago. There are many stalagmite, stalactite and column structures within the cave. These are formed at a slow rate of 1 cubic inch every 100 to 200 years.

Biosphere Mammoth cave was first discovered by Native Americans over 4,000 years ago. There are remnants of charred torches, sandals, and more found miles in the cave, in chambers lined with gypsum crystals. These crystals were quite valuable to the natives. The mummified body of a spelunker who has been crushed by a boulder over 2,000 years ago was found in the cave. The cave was rediscovered by white pioneers near the turn of the 17th century. There have been tours of the cave ever since, as well as some mining in the 1800’s. Inside of the cave live bats, insects, reptiles, and amphibians.

Atmosphere Mammoth cave, along with virtually all other caves, stays around the same temperature all year. It’s usual low being 12c (54F) and it’s high being 15c (60F). The cave luckily has no hazardous gases and is safe to breath.

Hydrosphere The cave is quite wet, as are most. This is due to water running into the cave, and just getting trapped once it evaporates. The cave has some bodies of water, and you can get boat tours. These bodies of water are quite pristine and clear, rich in minerals, but not safe for your consumption.

Works cited Pictures Information https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mammoth_Cave_(Western_Australia) http://raredelights.com/massive-mammoth-cave-national-park-kentucky-usa/ Information https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm http://adventure.howstuffworks.com/mammoth-cave-national-park-ga2.htm (Culdn’t do whole citation or pictures for each site)