Karst Geomorphic Processes
Karst caves are a good example of the natural formation of karst features. The formation of these features is a process that sounds much simpler than it really is. Karst is the result of carbonate rock being exposed from the lifting and faulting of the Earth's surface. Carbonate rock is a type of sedimentary rock that is composed primarily of carbonate material. Some examples of carbonate rock are limestone, dolomite and marble.
The carbonate rock is then subject to both physical and chemical weathering - which further develops the karst landscapes and landforms. Water plays a big part in the weathering of karst landscapes. Water can dissolve and carry different types of materials which can affect and drive the development of karst environments. Some karst caves have a water feature nearby and have been formed or shaped the way they are because of that nearby water source. Karst landscapes can also be found on evaporites. Evaporites are the natural salt or mineral deposits left behind after a body of water evaporates. Some examples or evaporites are gypsum, anhydrite, and rock salt. |