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Karst Landscapes (i) Name one example of a karst landscape that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2014
Question B
Karst Landscapes (i) Name one example of a karst landscape that you have studied. (ii) Explain, with the aid of a diagram, how one surface feature in a karst lands... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Karst Landscapes (i) Name one example of a karst landscape that you have studied - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2014
Step 1
Step 2
Explain, with the aid of a diagram, how one surface feature in a karst landscape is formed.
Answer
A surface feature in a karst landscape is a sinkhole.
Formation of a Sinkhole:
- Dissolution of Limestone: Rainwater, which is slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide, seeps into cracks in the limestone.
- Erosion: Over time, the acid reacts with the limestone, dissolving it and enlarging the cracks, creating underground voids.
- Collapse: When the roof of these voids can no longer support the weight above, it collapses, forming a sinkhole on the surface.
Step 3
Explain, with the aid of a diagram, how one underground feature in a karst landscape is formed.
Answer
One underground feature in a karst landscape is a stalactite.
Formation of a Stalactite:
- Dripping Water: Water dripping from the ceiling of a cave contains dissolved calcium carbonate.
- Deposition: As the water drips and evaporates, it leaves behind small deposits of calcite.
- Growth Over Time: This process continues over long periods, leading to the growth of stalactites hanging from the ceiling of the cave.