Karst Systems

Abstract

Karst systems, in general, can be observed only in their mature state of karstification. From their morphology at the surface and underground (caves) one has to infer the history of evolution of those systems. From the relation of tectonic structures in the rock, such as fracture systems, to the orientation of cave passages one agrees nowadays that secondary permeability for groundwater flow is established along those fracture planes, which represent the least resistance to water flow, and are therefore most effectively enlarged by dissolution of the confining limestone rock. Thus, karst systems evolve due to increasing secondary porosity and the corresponding secondary permeability by the dissolving action of calcite-aggressive water, penetrating into the rock along joints, bedding plane partings, faults or intersections of those structures.