- Dissolution: Water that seeps into the ground absorbs carbon dioxide (CO2) from the soil and rock, forming carbonic acid (H2CO3). This weak acid slowly dissolves the limestone (calcium carbonate) in the cave, carrying the dissolved minerals in solution.
- Precipitation: As the water containing dissolved minerals drips from the ceiling of the cave, some of the carbon dioxide gas escapes. This causes the water to become supersaturated with calcium carbonate. As a result, some of the dissolved minerals are deposited on the cave floor and ceiling, forming stalagmites and stalactites respectively.
Over time, these deposits can grow, forming the impressive and beautiful structures that are characteristic of limestone caves.
