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Explain with the aid of diagrams how any two underground landforms found in a karst region, are formed - Leaving Cert Geography - Question Question 1 - 2006
Question Question 1
Explain with the aid of diagrams how any two underground landforms found in a karst region, are formed. (40 Marks)
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain with the aid of diagrams how any two underground landforms found in a karst region, are formed - Leaving Cert Geography - Question Question 1 - 2006
Step 1
Named landform: Stalagmites
Answer
Stalagmites are vertical rock formations that rise from the floor of a cave due to the accumulation of mineral deposits from dripping water. The process begins when mineral-rich water seeps through the rocks above the cave. When this water drips to the cave floor, it loses carbon dioxide and causes calcium carbonate to precipitate, forming stalagmites over time. These formations grow upward toward the ceiling of the cave.
Diagram:
Process Name: Deposition of calcium carbonate.
Step 2
Named landform: Stalactites
Answer
Stalactites are icicle-shaped formations that hang from the ceiling of caves, created by the same process as stalagmites, but in reverse. When mineral-rich water drips from the cave ceiling, it also loses carbon dioxide, causing calcium carbonate to deposit on the roof. Over time, this results in elongated formations that hang down. Stalactites form from the ceiling due to the continuous dripping of water containing dissolved minerals.
Diagram:
Process Name: Deposition of calcium carbonate.