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Introduction To Karst Topography

Karst topography

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Ranjeeta Kar
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53 views3 pages

Introduction To Karst Topography

Karst topography

Uploaded by

Ranjeeta Kar
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction

 Karst topography is a type of landscape that is formed by the dissolution of soluble


rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. Conditions that promote karst
development are well-jointed, dense limestone near the surface; moderate to heavy
rainfall; and good groundwater circulation.
 This unique topography is characterized by sinkholes, disappearing streams, caves, and
underground drainage systems.
 Karst topography is found in many regions around the world and has significant
ecological, geological, and human importance.

Characteristics of Karst topography

Erosional landforms that characterize karst topography:

 Sinkholes:
o Sinkholes are circular depressions in the ground that are formed when the
overlying soil and rock collapse into underground cavities.
 Caves:
o Caves are underground chambers and passages that are formed by the
dissolution of rock. These can range from small cavities to large, complex
systems that span many miles.
o Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA:
 This park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over
650 km of explored passageways.
 Lapies:
o It is formed due to differential solution activity along parallel to sub-parallel
joints.
o They are also called grooved, fluted and ridge-like features in an open limestone
field.

Depositional landforms that characterize karst topography:

 Stalactite:
o A portion of the roof hangs on the roof and on evaporation of water, a small
deposit of limestone is left behind contributing to the formation of a stalactite,
growing downwards from the roof.
 Stalagmite:
o The remaining portion of the drop falls to the floor. This also evaporates, leaving
behind a small deposit of limestone aiding the formation of a stalagmite, thicker
and flatter, rising upwards from the floor.
 Column:
o Sometimes, stalactite and stalagmite join together to form a complete pillar
known as the column.
o Ha Long Bay, Vietnam:
 This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its tower-like
limestone formations, which are formed by Karst Topography.

Other Characteristics:
 Disappearing Streams:
o Disappearing streams are streams that flow into the ground and disappear into
underground drainage systems.
 Underground Lake:
o Most naturally occurring underground lakes are found in areas of Karst
topography, where limestone or other soluble rock has been weathered away,
leaving a cave where water can flow and accumulate.

Significance of Karst Topography:

 Geological Significance:
o The dissolution of soluble rocks results in the formation of complex
underground drainage systems, which can lead to the creation of vast cave
systems.
o These caves can contain important geological formations, such as stalactites,
stalagmites, and flowstones, which provide insights into the Earth's geological
history.
 Human Significance:
o Many karst regions around the world are used for agriculture and forestry, and
they provide important sources of raw materials, such as limestone for
construction.
o However, human activities can also have negative impacts on karst ecosystems,
such as groundwater contamination and soil erosion.
 Ecological Significance:
o It provides habitats for a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of
which are unique to karst environments.
o The porous nature of the rock formations allows water to seep through and form
underground aquifers, which provide important sources of freshwater for
drinking, irrigation, and industry.

Conclusion

 Karsts are found in widely scattered sections of the world, including the caucus of
France; the Kwangsi area of China; the Yucatan Peninsula in the United States. Human
activities have negative impacts on karst ecosystems, and it is important to protect and
preserve these fragile landscapes.

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