In what sort of rock do most caves occur?
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3 Answers
Most caves occur in limestone rock. Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which is the same mineral found in seashells and coral. Over time, water containing dissolved carbon dioxide can dissolve limestone, creating underground cavities and passages. As the water continues to flow through the cavities, it can create different cave formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Limestone caves are found all over the world, and some of the most famous examples include Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, USA, and the Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst in Europe.
Most caves occur in sedimentary rock such as limestone, which is formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate. As rainwater, groundwater, and acidic liquids seep into the rock, they dissolve and erode it, creating underground caverns and passages. Caves can also form in other types of rock such as granite, shale, and sandstone, but this is less common.