Karst Landscape With reference to the Irish landscape, examine the processes which have influenced the development of any one underground landform in a karst region. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2010

The underground landform identified is the limestone cave.

An example from the Irish landscape is the Aillwee Cave located in County Clare.

The development of limestone caves like Aillwee Cave results from the gradual dissolution of limestone by acidic water, which originates from the combination of rainwater and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Once the acidic water seeps into the soil, it reacts with the carbon dioxide to form carbonic acid, which is capable of dissolving the limestone, creating a porous environment. Over millions of years, this dissolution process leads to the formation of expansive underground chambers and tunnels.

In specific regions of Ireland, particularly in the Burren area, previously formed limestone features are accentuated through this process, revealing dramatic and complex cave systems. The Aillwee Cave, for example, showcases a stunning variety of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed as a result of mineral deposits left behind by dripping water.

Furthermore, the cave system acts as a habitat for a variety of species, thereby contributing to biodiversity in these karst landscapes. Diagrams illustrating the formation process could include labeled cross-sections of the cave and its surrounding environment to better visualize these complex interactions. Each phase of cave development, from initial acid penetration to large chamber formations and speleothem formation, can be clearly depicted to enhance understanding of these geologic processes.