| Cave: chamber beneath the surface of the earth or in the side of a hill, cliff, or mountain. Caves vary in size and shape, and many have large openings to the surface.Naturally formed caves evolve in various ways, mainly as a result of the solvent action of water and compounds in it. Known technically as caves of solution, such chambers are most common in limestone formations, particularly in regions that have ample rainfall.Other types of caves include the sea cave, which is formed by wave action against seaside cliffs; lava caves, which form under lava flows; and ice caves, which form in glaciers and icebergs. River action forms still another type of cave, commonly with a very large opening that gives it the appearance of a natural amphitheater. |
