RELATIONSHIP OF pH AND CO2 TO RAINFALL AMOUNTS AT A DOLOMITE CAVE

The affect of rainfall on CO₂ levels of cave air, and the pH of water exiting soda straws was determined at Cherokee Caverns, a Copper Ridge dolomite cave. These values were recorded inside and outside the cave using Vernier portable CO₂ and pH meters. Cherokee Caverns is unique because of the abundance and accessibility of soda straws. Data demonstrated that pH during a wetter period was more acidic whereas, during a dryer period, the pH of the water was neutral or slightly basic. CO₂ levels gradually increased after a rainfall and decreased after multiple dry days. The result of the experiments and data gathered is a better understanding of the environment that allows the abundant growth of the unique soda straw formations of Cherokee Caverns.