How is a sinkhole formed?

How is a sinkhole formed?

As the limestone dissolves, pores and cracks are enlarged and carry even more acidic water. Sinkholes are formed when the land surface above collapses or sinks into the cavities or when surface material is carried downward into the voids.

How do human activities lead to sinkholes?

Human activity can create sinkholes, too, for example, via collapsed or broken sewer and drain pipes or broken septic tanks, improperly compacted soil after excavation work, and buried trash, logs and other debris. They can also occur from the overpumping and extraction of groundwater and subsurface fluids.

What is the difference between landslide and sinkhole?

Landslides & Sinkholes. A landslide is a slipping of a slope or cliff that causes large amounts of rock and soil to collapse. A sinkhole is a collapse in a flatter area that causes a hole to open up in the ground.

What damage can be done by a sinkhole?

It's basic geology: Sinkholes open when soil collapses into large holes, caused by flowing water in underground limestone. Their toll can be dramatic, swallowing homes, trees or anything else on the collapsing ground – even prized Corvettes.