Karst Landscape Explain, with the aid of a labelled diagram, how any one underground feature in a Karst landscape was formed. - Junior Cycle Geography - Question B - 2016

A stalactite is a common underground feature formed in a karst landscape, typically found in limestone caves.

Labeled Diagram

To illustrate the formation of a stalactite, draw a cross-section of a limestone cave showing the ceiling with water dripping down to form the stalactite. Label the following:

• Stalactite
• Dripping Water
• Cave Ceiling
• Minerals Accumulation

Explanation of Formation

1. Dissolution of Limestone: Rainwater, which is slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide, seeps into the ground and percolates through the soil. As it continues to flow through limestone bedrock, it dissolves the calcium carbonate, forming a weak carbonic acid solution.

2. Water Dripping: This acidic water reaches the ceiling of the cave and drips down. As the water drips, it loses carbon dioxide to the cave atmosphere, causing the calcium carbonate to precipitate out of the solution.

3. Mineral Deposition: Over time, the deposited minerals build up around the drip site, gradually forming a stalactite. The buildup process continues as long as dripping water is present, resulting in stalactites of varying sizes.

4. Growth Process: The growth of a stalactite can be slow, taking many years to form even a small icicle-shaped structure. This process exemplifies the dynamic interactions between the geological and hydrological systems in a karst environment.