speleology

Speleology is the scientific study of caves and other karst features, their make-up, structure, physical properties, history, life forms, and the processes by which they form (speleogenesis) and change over time (speleomorphology). The term speleology is also sometimes applied to the recreational activity of exploring caves, but this is more properly known as caving, spelunking or potholing. Speleology and caving are often connected, as the physical skills required for in situ study are the same.

Speleology is a cross-disciplinary field that combines the knowledge of chemistry, biology, geology, physics, meteorology and cartography to develop portraits of caves as complex, evolving systems. Contents [hide] 1 History 2 Cave geology and hydrology 2.1 Geochemistry speleothems 3 Cave cartography 3.1 Survey error detection 4 Cave biology 5 Other areas of cave science 6 References 7 External links //

History

Prior to the mid-nineteenth century the scientific value of caves was considered only in its contribution to other branches of science, and cave studies were considered part of the larger disciplines of geography, geology or archaeology. Very little cave-specific study was undertaken prior to the work of Édouard-Alfred Martel (1859 - 1938), the 'father of modern speleology', who through his extensive and well-publicised cave explorations introduced the concept of speleology as a distinct area of study. In 1895 Martel founded the Société de Spéléologie, the first organization devoted to cave science in the world.

The growth of speleology is directly linked with that of the sport of caving, both because of the stimulation of public interest and awareness, and the fact that most speleological field-work has been conducted by sport cavers.

Cave geology and hydrology Main article: karst

Geochemistry speleothems Main article: speleothem

Cave cartography

The creation of an accurate, detailed map is one of the most common technical activities undertaken within a cave. Cave maps, called surveys, can be used to compare caves to each other by length, depth and volume, may reveal clues on speleogenesis, provide a spatial reference for further scientific study, and assist visitors with route-finding.

A survey team begins at a fixed point (such as the cave entrance) and measures a series of consecutive line-of-sight measurements between stations. These measurements include direction (azimuth) taken with a compass, inclination from horizontal (dip) taken with a clinometer, and distance measured with a low-stretch tape or laser rangefinder. Coincident with recording straight-line data, details of passage dimensions, shape, gradual or sudden changes in elevation, the presence or absence of still or flowing water, and material on the floor are recorded. Later, the cartographer presents the technical measurements as a line-plot, then draws details around the line-plot for