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The photograph shows the surface of part of The Burren region in Co - Junior Cycle Geography - Question ii - 2006
Question ii
The photograph shows the surface of part of The Burren region in Co. Clare. (i) Name the type of rock which occurs in the area shown. (ii) Describe fully the type o... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The photograph shows the surface of part of The Burren region in Co - Junior Cycle Geography - Question ii - 2006
Step 1
Step 2
Describe fully the type of weathering that takes place in the area shown.
Answer
The weathering occurring in the Burren area is primarily chemical weathering, facilitated by rainwater. Rainwater absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, forming a weak solution known as carbonic acid. This weak acid is effective at dissolving calcium carbonate, which is the primary mineral found in limestone.
The permeable nature of limestone, characterized by its joints and bedding planes, allows rainwater to seep through these lines of weakness, enhancing the weathering process. As the rain dissolves the calcium carbonate in the limestone, it creates distinctive geological features such as clints and grikes. This process not only alters the rock structure but leads to the gradual erosion of the limestone over time, contributing to the unique landscape of the Burren.