Which of the following results from groundwater deposition? A) A flowstone B) A sinkhole C) Karst Spring D) A cave
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: A) A flowstone
Explanation
Groundwater plays a crucial role in shaping underground landscapes through processes of erosion and deposition. Among the listed options, a flowstone specifically results from groundwater deposition.
Flowstone is a type of speleothem, or cave formation, created when mineral-rich groundwater drips or flows along the walls or floors of a cave. As the water flows, it loses carbon dioxide, which causes the dissolved calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) to precipitate out of the water and be deposited on the rock surface. Over time, this repeated deposition creates smooth, layered formations that resemble flowing water, hence the name “flowstone.” Flowstones can appear as sheets, curtains, or drapes of rock and often exhibit beautiful patterns and colors due to trace minerals.
In contrast, the other options are primarily the result of groundwater erosion, not deposition:
- B) A sinkhole forms when underground limestone or other soluble rock is eroded by groundwater, causing the surface to collapse.
- C) Karst spring is a type of spring where water emerges from a karst system, which is formed mainly through the dissolution (erosion) of limestone.
- D) A cave (especially limestone caves) forms primarily through the erosion or dissolution of rock by acidic groundwater over long periods.
Thus, while caves and karst landscapes are initially shaped by groundwater erosion, flowstones are created during the later stages of cave development, when deposition occurs. These deposits add to the intricate beauty of caves and are key indicators of water movement and mineral content in groundwater systems.
To summarize: Flowstones form when mineral-rich water deposits layers of calcium carbonate inside caves, making option A the correct answer when focusing specifically on groundwater deposition.
