Book 24, Question 16 · Video
Why does the ground sometimes sink to make a sinkhole?
In some places, the rock under the soil is limestone or gypsum, which slowly dissolves in water. Over time, water can carve out empty spaces underground. When the roof of an empty space can no longer hold the weight above it, the ground sinks. Sinkholes can be small or large.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why does the ground sometimes sink to make a sinkhole?
The Big Idea
Sometimes the ground suddenly sinks and leaves a hole. It is called a sinkhole. Water working slowly underground is the cause!
Soft Rock
Step one: Soft Rock. In some places, the rock under the soil is limestone or gypsum. These rocks slowly dissolve in water.
Hidden Spaces
Step two: Hidden Spaces. Over time, water can carve out empty spaces underground. The ground above may look perfectly normal.
The Roof Gives Way
Step three: The Roof Gives Way. When the roof of an empty space can no longer hold the weight above it, the ground sinks. Sinkholes can be small or large. If you see one, stay back and tell a grown-up.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Rainwater soaks down. It dissolves limestone. An empty space grows. The roof collapses.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Florida has many sinkholes because limestone lies close under its soil. Never go near the edge of a sinkhole, because more ground can fall. Many caves form the same way, as water dissolves limestone. Rainwater is slightly acidic, which helps it dissolve limestone.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up, put a piece of chalk on a plate. Chalk is a kind of limestone. Add a few drops of vinegar and watch it fizz and wear away. Do not touch your eyes, and rinse your hands afterward. How is this like water making a sinkhole?
Outro
A sinkhole forms when water slowly dissolves rock like limestone, leaving empty spaces underground, until the roof can no longer hold the weight. If you see one, stay back and tell a grown-up. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!