Physical Geography - Karst and Caves

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Physical Geography, specifically focusing on Karst and Caves.

Limestone

A sedimentary rock made of calcium carbonate, known for dissolving in acid.

Karst Topography

Landforms created by the chemical weathering of limestone, including unique geological features.

Sinkholes

Depressions or holes in the ground caused by the collapse of a surface layer due to dissolution of underlying limestone.

Karst Valleys

Landforms that form when multiple sinkholes merge together.

Tropical Karst

A type of karst landscape characterized by specific features such as cockpits and cones.

Dripstone

Mineral formations like stalactites and stalagmites that develop in caves due to dripping water.

Stalactites

Icelandic rock formations that hang from the ceiling of caves, formed by mineral deposits from dripping water.

Stalagmites

Rock formations that rise from the ground of caves, formed by mineral deposits from dripping water.

Travertine

A type of limestone formed from the redeposition of dissolved calcium carbonate.

Speleothems

Collective term for cave formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.