Rocks and LandscapesChapter 7

Limestone features

The Burren, Co. Clare

KarstThe word Karst means exposed or bare ground. It is used mainly to describe a Limestone area where this karstic landscape can be seen.

Characteristics of Karst regions• Lack of rivers• Swallow holes on the surface• Dolines• Underground water

Why are limestone areas…karst areas?

Because limestone is……..•Permeable•Well jointed•Has bedding planes•Chemically weathered by………..carbonation

Carbonation of Limestone

If you go down to a karst area today……

Limestone features

Overground features:• Limestone pavement with

clints, grikes and karren• Terraces• Swallow holes• Dolines / Sinkholes• Turloughs

Limestone Pavement

clints

Grikes

Karren

Terrace

Limestone features

Underground features:• Caves and passages• Stalactites• Stalagmites• Pillars• Curtains• Streams