Kenilworth
New member
Speleothems are somewhat unpredictable. In many cases, caves with apparently similar geologic formation and situation contain wildly differing amounts and types of speleothems. Even high-level joint-controlled passages, where speleothems are often best developed, are very inconsistent.
The factors; mineral composition of the bedrock, organic content of the overburden, the nuances of surface terrain and drainage, age of the passage, structure of the passage, airflow, &ect., are many. Which is most important? What can help an observer determine which may be the primary control in any particular passage?
The factors; mineral composition of the bedrock, organic content of the overburden, the nuances of surface terrain and drainage, age of the passage, structure of the passage, airflow, &ect., are many. Which is most important? What can help an observer determine which may be the primary control in any particular passage?