Mammoth Cave Geological Features

What type of rock is primarily found in Mammoth Cave?

• Limestone

• Granite

• Marble

• Sandstone

How were the caves in Mammoth Cave formed?

• Due to erosion by wind

• Through the dissolution of soluble rocks by acidic groundwater

• As a result of tectonic plate movement

• Through volcanic activity

What is the name of the longest cave system in the world located in Mammoth Cave?

• Mammoth Cavern System

• Mammoth Cave System

• Colossal Cave System

• Giant Cave System

What geological feature is responsible for the unique formations found in Mammoth Cave?

• Granite melting due to volcanic activity

• Limestone dissolution by groundwater

• Sandstone erosion by wind

• Shale compression by tectonic forces

What is the name of the river that flows through Mammoth Cave?

• Colorado River

• Mississippi River

• Ohio River

• Green River

What type of formations are stalactites and stalagmites found in Mammoth Cave?

• Stalactites and stalagmites are found in Mammoth Cave in formations known as speleothems.

• Stalactites and stalagmites are found in Mammoth Cave in formations known as crystal formations.

• Stalactites and stalagmites are found in Mammoth Cave in formations known as ice formations.

• Stalactites and stalagmites are found in Mammoth Cave in formations known as rock formations.

What role do underground rivers play in the formation of Mammoth Cave?

• Erode the limestone rock and create caverns and passageways

• Create stalactites and stalagmites within the cave

• Act as a natural heating system for the cave

• Provide a source of drinking water for cave explorers

How does the limestone in Mammoth Cave contribute to its geological features?

• Limestone erodes quickly, leading to the formation of Mammoth Cave

• Limestone dissolves over time due to acidic groundwater, creating caverns and unique geological formations.

• Limestone hardens over time, preventing the creation of caverns

• Limestone attracts wildlife, but does not impact the geological features of Mammoth Cave

What geological process is responsible for the creation of sinkholes in Mammoth Cave?

• Dissolution of limestone by acidic groundwater

• Glacial erosion

• Tectonic plate movement

• Volcanic eruptions

What significant role does Mammoth Cave play in the study of geology and speleology?

• It provides evidence of ancient volcanic activity.

• It serves as a model for studying cave ecosystems and formation processes.

• It is a primary source of rare minerals.

• It offers insights into the effects of glacial movements on cave formations.