
In limestone blocks, there are often vertical and horizontal cracks. Rainwater flows through these cracks, dissolving limestone, expanding into caves.
Atmospheric rainwater containing CO2 will strongly dissolve minerals in the carbonate and sulfate groups, converting them into calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2), according to the formula:
H2O + CO2 + CaCO3 → Ca(HCO3)2