Geochemical evolution of drip-water and present-growing calcite at Kaite cave (N Spain)

Abstract

A range of parameters is analyzed from drip-waters and present-growing calcites at Kaite cave (Ojo Guareña complex, Burgos, N Spain) from mid-2002. The objective is establishing the linkage between the geochemical processes occurring in the drip-water/calcite system and the changes external to the cave. The selected site is Las Velas Hall, characterized by a stable cave climate and absence of significant air currents. Two seepage points (with “low” and “fast” drip-water rate) were chosen for the study, both with calcite growing at present time. The low drip-water point does not have a direct response to rainfall, as opposite to the fast drip-water point which respond rapidly to external precipitation. Intra- and inter- annual variations in the chemical and isotopic components are observed.