Karst

Karst is a type of topography characterized by the presence of sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems. This landscape is formed primarily from the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. The term "karst" originates from the Karst Plateau, a limestone region in western Slovenia.

Formation

Karst landscapes form when slightly acidic water begins to dissolve the bedrock near the surface. This process, known as chemical weathering, results in the formation of sinkholes, caves, and other karst features. Over time, the continued dissolution of the bedrock can lead to the development of an extensive underground drainage system.

Features

Karst landscapes are characterized by a variety of unique features. These include:

• Sinkholes: These are depressions or holes in the ground caused by the collapse of a cave or other subterranean structure. They can vary in size from a few feet to several miles in diameter.
• Caves: These are natural underground spaces large enough for a human to enter. They are formed by the dissolution of rock and are often part of a larger karst system.
• Karst springs: These are locations where water emerges from the ground in a karst landscape. They are often the endpoint of an underground drainage system.

Karst Regions

Karst landscapes can be found all over the world. Some notable karst regions include the Burren in Ireland, the Nullarbor Plain in Australia, and the Flint Hills in the United States.

Environmental Issues

Karst landscapes are vulnerable to a variety of environmental issues. These include water pollution, soil erosion, and the loss of biodiversity. Because karst systems often involve underground drainage, pollutants can easily spread throughout the system and contaminate water supplies.

See Also

• Cave formation
• Speleology
• Hydrogeology