after an extended time, a cave can become very large if the overlying rocks are stable. what acid dissolves thelimestone? what is the source of this acid?
URGENT.....
2007-03-13 23:49:58 · 2 answers · asked by dj opelac(shs II dalton) 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
The most prevalant acid in rain-water is H2CO3 or Carbonic acid, which is a very week acid.. It is formed due to the dissolution of carbon dioxide in water.. and makes the water mildly acidic..
When this interacts with limestone, which is CaCO3, it dissolves and can be carried away when the water drains..
2007-03-14 00:17:37 · answer #1 · answered by Kidambi A 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Likely you will be interested in karst caves. Dissolving the limestone can adversely affect the quality of our drinking water supple. Instead of percolating through soil, karst formations allow polluted water to travel great distances unpurified. Man-made acids in the rain (H2SO4, etc.) from power plants (added too dilute acids from atmospheric carbon dioxide) can accelerate karst formation.
2007-03-14 07:43:52 · answer #2 · answered by Kes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋