A variety of things, though speleologists generally concentrate on their own fields of expertise:
The primary study, usually carried out by the cave's explorers, is a high-grade survey of the cave, its relationship to the landscape and to other caves; and often a photographic record.
If the cave is still "active" (carrying a stream) the locations of its sinks, risings (outlet springs) and flow-through time are also determined.
Then the specific geology of the cave can be assessed: the age and structure of the limestone and its fellow rocks, the orogeny that pushed them into the hills or mountains, and the age and development of the cave within in its local geological context.
The sediments and calcite formations might be analysed to determine their geological history and by inference, the palaeoclimate during their deposition.
Meanwhile the cave-biologists might be studying the resident fauna - no flora away from daylight, apart from occasional fungi on organic detritus.
The cave may hold archaeological or palaeontological remains, so they will be studied carefully and systematically, by or under professional supervision.
When Ancient Cave man began smahing rocks .
If you were a speleologist, you would study caves and their physical, chemical, and biological features. This includes exploring cave formations, mapping cave systems, studying the underground environment, and investigating any unique life forms that may exist underground.
Yes, they are a major part of history, telling us the past of cavemen.
A study sheet is a page full of observational drawings based on one thing like cave paintings for instance and notes to explain the drawings. If you need to do a cave paintings sheet you need to find artists work of caves and paint at least 4 observational drawings with notes to put on your study sheet or you need to draw caves from pictures on the internet or from books and explain whether you focused on tonal areas or the detail or the basic shape of the cave.
A cave explorer is also known as a spelunker. Spelunking refers to the recreational activity of exploring caves, while professional cave explorers may be referred to as cavers or speleologists, particularly when they engage in scientific study of caves. These individuals often navigate intricate cave systems, studying geology, biology, and ecology within these unique environments.
Cave hydrology is the study of water movement and behavior within cave systems. It examines how water interacts with geological formations, including processes like erosion, dissolution, and the formation of speleothems. This field also investigates groundwater flow, the impact of surface water on cave ecosystems, and the role of caves in regional hydrology. Understanding cave hydrology is crucial for managing water resources and preserving unique subterranean environments.
You'd have to study the surveys or formal reports by the cave's explorers to establish that. Generally cavers don't usually count the number of passages (just that, not "~ways") but do quote the total length surveyed - approaching 400miles for the Mammoth / Flint Ridge System.
The main idea is to explore and provide explanations for the evolutionary phenomenon of cave fish losing their eyesight. Researchers study this process to understand how environmental factors can drive changes in species over time, leading to the loss of unnecessary traits like eyes in dark cave environments.
A Speleologist or Cave Scientist - though many describe themselves simply as cavers who are studying the particular aspect that interests them.
Yes, indeed. The study of organisms that are either permanent cave-dwellers or use caves as, e.g., roosts, is a one of the various sciences under the umbrella term "speleology".
Cave art provides valuable insights into the culture, beliefs, and daily life of prehistoric societies. By studying cave art, historians can understand the artistic abilities, symbolism, and social structures of early human communities. It also helps in reconstructing the timeline of human evolution and migration patterns.
Cave entrances are typically called cave mouths, cave openings, or cave portals.