Carbonation is a primary chemical weathering process that degrades limestone landscapes. What is the correct chronological sequence of steps involved in carbonation, from the initial formation of acidic rainwater to the final removal of dissolved rock materials?
- 1Carbon dioxide dissolves in falling atmospheric rainwater to form weak carbonic acid.
- 2Acidic rainwater percolates through rock joints and bedding planes of exposed limestone.
- 3Carbonic acid chemically reacts with insoluble calcium carbonate to transform it into soluble calcium bicarbonate.
- 4Soluble calcium bicarbonate is carried away in solution by groundwater, widening joints and forming karst landforms.
Answer
The correct sequence begins with carbon dioxide dissolving in rainwater to form carbonic acid, followed by acidic rainwater contacting limestone, chemical reaction forming soluble calcium bicarbonate, and finally the removal of dissolved calcium bicarbonate in solution by water.
Carbonation begins when carbon dioxide dissolves in rainwater to form weak carbonic acid. When this acidic rainwater contacts limestone, it converts insoluble calcium carbonate into soluble calcium bicarbonate, which is subsequently washed away in solution by moving water.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Chemical weathering of limestone via carbonation
Estimated Time:1m 0s