Reasons For Chemical Weathering

Carbon Dioxide released from human pollution in the atmosphere combines with the water in the atmosphere to create increased levels of Carbonic acid which comes down as acid rain. As the rain works through the rocks and soil it reacts with the certain rocks creating larger and larger cavities below the surface. When the cavity can no longer support the weight of the ground above, it collapses as a sinkhole. In addition, water sources and sewer pipes that run underground can corrode and leach out acidic chemicals and water which can lead to increased instability under the surface.

Solutions for this Issue

Builders should avoid developing areas that are more at-risk for sinkhole formation. The additional stress of development could cause underground cavities to collapse and form a sinkhole. Another solution would be to decrease atmospheric carbon dioxide and other chemicals that lead to acid rain. If the amount of acid rain decreased then the rate of chemical weathering below the surface would also decrease. Another potential solution would be to improve or replace the underground water and sewer pipes to prevent corrosion and chemical leaks.