Predicting the Likelihood and Severity of Sinkholes Occurring in Khutsong Due to Leakage From Underground Water Pipes

Overview

Purpose: This research explored if soil saturation contributes to the formation of sinkholes. This research also investigated if Khutsong households are at risks of new sinkholes. Method: The hypothesis was tested through research and experiments. Three beakers were placed on a level surface and over each beaker, a funnel was placed. Over the funnel a filter paper was placed then the funnels were filled with 20ml of soil from 3 sinkholes sites, individually. These were further labeled accordingly and flooded with 20ml of water. It was inspected how much water seeped through the soil. The same method was followed with a sample from stable ground. A survey was also conducted to determine if households in Khutsong display signs of possible sinkholes. Results: The soil samples from all sinkhole sites all saturated 6-7 ml of water. The soil sample from stable site saturated slightly more, 8ml of water. The rest of the water went through the funnel. Observations: From areas surrounding the sinkhole sites, most houses had signs of sinkholes. There were deep cracks in walls and a few tension cracks in soil. Some houses have had their trees and walls fall off or sink. Most household have had a water pipe issue, either bursting or blocking. The stable site, however, also had many cracked walls and a few tension cracks in soil. The residents reported issues with water pipes and also leaning structures. This also shows signs of a sinkhole. Conclusion: The hypothesis was accepted as more water had soaked through the soil. The results might indicate that the soil does, indeed, contribute to the formation of sinkholes in Khutsong.

Competition history

• ISEF 2023 Earth and Environmental Sciences · Entry EAEV012 · Dallas, Texas, United States Affiliated fair in Gauteng, South Africa

Resources

• ISEF abstract page ↗

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