During the structural evolution of a karst drainage basin, percolating meteoric water enriched with dissolved carbon dioxide descends vertically through unsaturated jointed limestone until it reaches an impermeable stratum. Which of the following correctly identifies the dominant process operating at the water table interface and the resulting subterranean landform?
- Chemical solution enlarging horizontal conduits along bedding planes to form phreatic cavernsCevap
- BCorrasion (mechanical river abrasion) carving out vertical V-shaped gorges below the limestone layer
- CMetamorphic recrystallization forming crystalline marble pillars within subterranean hollows
- DDownslope gravitational mass movement slumping subterranean roofs into surface dry valleys
Cevap
Chemical solution enlarging horizontal conduits along bedding planes to form phreatic caverns
The correct answer identifies chemical solution enlarging horizontal conduits along bedding planes to form phreatic caverns. As carbonated water descends through joints in permeable limestone and reaches the saturated water table, its flow becomes predominantly horizontal along bedding planes. The continuous solvent action of carbonic acid dissolves calcium carbonate, expanding horizontal fissures into extensive subterranean caverns.
Adım Adım Çözüm
Anahtar Kavram
Karst Cavern Evolution and Underground Water Solution Processes
Tahmini Süre:2m 0s