What does a Speleologist do?
Someone who studies caves is called a speleologist (spee-lee-AWL-oh-gist). A speleologist might study the rock that caves are made of or how caves form and why. They can also study the organisms that live in those caves. Some even study caves to find out more about the history of the Earth.
What do cavers do?
Caving – also known as spelunking in the United States and Canada and potholing in the United Kingdom and Ireland – is the recreational pastime of exploring wild cave systems (as distinguished from show caves). In contrast, speleology is the scientific study of caves and the cave environment.
What is the difference between caving and spelunking?
In general, the primary difference between the two is the person’s motive behind exploring the cave. If they are simply going into a cave for enjoyment and an adrenaline rush, then it is referred to as spelunking. On the other hand, exploring caves from a conservation or biological standpoint is called caving.
How do cavers find their way out?
If you feel small air currents (or detect them using the flicker of a lighter), you may be able to pinpoint a passage that leads to the surface. Tossing a bit of fine dust can also help you determine a breeze’s direction. When you’re tired, try to avoid lying on cold rock, which will steal warmth from your body.
What is speleology geology?
Speleology, scientific discipline that is concerned with all aspects of caves and cave systems. Speleology requires, essentially, the application of geological and hydrological knowledge to problems associated with underground cavern systems. Amateur exploration of caves, as a hobby, is called spelunking.
What do cavers wear?
Essentially, the clothing you choose for your caving experience should keep you warm, dry and comfortable. Caving suits are recommended (like tough boiler suits) if you will be crawling and passing through smaller spaces as they provide an extra layer of protection.
What is a watery cave called?
Cenotes are surface connections to subterranean water bodies.
Is cave water drinkable?
Don’t drink cave water. Bring enough water that it will last beyond the estimated length of your expedition. Pack high-energy foods that can survive the tight confines of a cave.
Can you get lost in caves?
But by far, the most common threat and problem that people run into while caving is getting lost. Caves don’t necessarily have a single path to follow. You still have (hopefully) all of your necessary caving gear with you, which means your chances of survival and getting back out alive are already high.
Who invented speleology?
The term speleology was coined by Émile Rivière in 1890.
What are speleothems made of?
Speleothems are deposits of secondary minerals (such as calcite) that form from slow groundwater inflow on the ceilings, walls, and floors of caves. Stalactites and stalagmites are the most frequently studied of these features.