GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Caves are formed by the dissolution of limestone. Rainwater picks up carbon dioxide from the air and as it percolates through the soil, which turns into a weak acid.

Detailed explanation-2: -A limestone cave or cavern is a natural cavity that is formed underneath the Earth’s surface that can range from a few metres to many kilometres in length and depth. Most of the world’s caves, including those at the Cradle of Humankind, are formed in porous limestone.

Detailed explanation-3: -Limestone and dolomite are the most common carbonate rocks that form solution caves.

Detailed explanation-4: -Limestone caves, which are formed primarily by rainwater and snowmelt, are by far the most numerous of all cave types. Limestone formations were created millions of years ago, often in shallow seas, largely from the accumulated remains of marine animals such as corals.

Detailed explanation-5: -Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is dominantly composed of the calcium-bearing carbonate minerals calcite and dolomite. Calcite is chemically calcium carbonate (formula CaCO3).