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What Is A Blue Hole?

Most of us will have heard of Black holes that exist in Space, but what are Blue Holes and why do they form?

Discovery Networks
Created by Discovery Networks (User Generated Content*)User Generated Content is not posted by anyone affiliated with, or on behalf of, Playbuzz.com.
On Nov 19, 2018
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Definition:

Put most simply, a Blue Hole is a large cavern or sinkhole filled with water. The term blue hole originates from the dark, navy waters that characterize its form. Their color comes from way in which the light is refracted and reflected in the deep column of water that they contain.

Why do they form?

Many blue holes were formed during the last Ice Age, when sea levels were much lower. Over time, glacial runoff began dissolving limestone ground, forming sinkholes with massive caverns below. As the glaciers of the Ice Age slowly began to melt, the deep holes in the ground were filled with water, forming the Blue Holes we know today.

Where can you find Blue Holes?

Blue holes are typically found on shallow carbonate platforms and can contain either freshwater or salt water.

The most famous Blue Holes in the world are:

  •  The Great Hole - Belize


  • Dragon Hole - South China Sea


  • Dean's Blue Hole - The Bahamas


  • Gozo, Malta


  • Rock Islands’ Blue Holes – Palau

Want to find out more about Blue Holes?

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