Overview
Subterranean rivers are fascinating geological features that flow beneath the Earth's surface, often through intricate cave systems. They are formed by the erosion of soluble rocks, creating unique landscapes known as karst topography. These rivers play a vital role in the hydrological cycle, suppor...
Key Terms
Example: The Yucatán Peninsula is known for its karst topography.
Example: The Ogallala Aquifer is a major water source in the U.S.
Example: Rivers erode their banks, shaping the landscape.
Example: The Mammoth Cave system in Kentucky is the longest in the world.
Example: Stalactites can take thousands of years to form.
Example: Stalagmites grow upwards as minerals accumulate.
Related Topics
Hydrology
The study of water in the environment, including its distribution and movement.
intermediateCave Ecology
The study of organisms living in cave environments and their interactions.
advancedGeological Mapping
The process of creating maps that represent geological features and formations.
intermediateKey Concepts
karst topographyaquiferserosioncave systems