1. Groundwater Erosion & Deposition
Chapter 10
Section 2

2. Most groundwater contains carbonic acid
This acidic water then “attacks” carbonate rocks (Limestone)

3. 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)

4. Mammoth Caves (Kentucky)
Carlsbad Caverns (New Mexico)

5. 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

11. Cenote

12. Hard Water
Water that contains high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and iron
Problem in the Home:
Clog water pipes
Soap doesn’t bubble

13. Natural Deposits Stalactites Stalagmites Dripstone Columns
Reed Flute Cave (China)

14. Stalactites Hang from cave ceiling
When the water drops splash to the floor they gradually build…

15. Stalagmites Mounds on the floor built up underneath the stalactites
They grow together to form…

16. Dripstone Columns – form when stalagmites and stalactites connect