Why is carbonation weathering credited with helping create unique caves? Carbon deposits are formed that keep expanding to form caves. Carbon dioxide is released when water reacts with certain minerals. This gas builds and expands the rocks to create caves. Rocks with high carbon content get burned in the high temperatures, creating massive underground caves. Carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid. This acidic water dissolves minerals in rocks.

Carbon dioxide dissolves in water to form carbonic acid. This acidic water dissolves minerals in rocks.<br /><br />Carbonation weathering, also known as chemical weathering, occurs when carbon dioxide in the air or soil reacts with water to form carbonic acid. This weak acid can dissolve minerals in rocks, particularly those containing calcium carbonate, such as limestone and marble. Over time, the dissolution of these minerals can create voids and cavities, which can eventually expand to form caves. This process is responsible for the formation of many of the world's unique limestone caves.