Lab 06 Module 15: Karst Landscapes And Groundwater

Lab 06 Module 15 Karst Landscapes And Groundwaternoteplease Refer T

Lab 06 Module 15 Karst Landscapes And Groundwaternoteplease Refer T

Lab 06/ MODULE 15: KARST LANDSCAPES AND GROUNDWATER Note: Please refer to the GETTING STARTED module to learn how to maneuver through and answer the lab questions using Google Earth ().

KEY TERMS Students should know and understand these terms: Aquifer Dissolution Stalactites Cave Groundwater Stalagmites Cavern Karst landscape Subsidence Carbonate rock Sinkhole Tower karst Disappearing stream Speleothems Water table

LAB LEARNING OBJECTIVES After successfully completing this module, you should be able to the following tasks: · Identify karst features on a topographic map and aerial photo · Identify land uses associated with karst topography · Identify components of the groundwater system · Explain how water enters, flows through, and exits the ground · Explain how caves and caverns are formed · Explain how the hydrologic cycle functions · Identify land uses associated with groundwater

Introduction

This module examines Karst landscapes and groundwater. Topics include caves, caverns, sinkholes, aquifers, infiltration, and groundwater movement. Although these topics may seem separate, they are interconnected. The modules begin with four vignettes in Google Earth that introduce fundamental concepts related to karst landscapes and groundwater, often supplemented with animations, videos, or articles for enhanced understanding.

After reviewing each vignette and associated links, answer the subsequent questions. Note that link load times may vary based on internet speed. Expand the INTRODUCTION folder and select Topic 1: Introduction. Read the content and answer the following questions:

  • Question 1: What human disturbance is evident in both surface and subterranean karst environments? (Choose one)
    • A. Human dwellings
    • B. Pollution
    • C. Agricultural land use
    • D. Dams for hydroelectric power
  • Question 2: How are caves and caverns, once underground, now visible on the surface in mature tropical karst environments? (Choose one)
    • A. A decrease in water levels exposed the caves and caverns
    • B. Terracing of mountains for agricultural production exposed them
    • C. Tectonic uplift and weathering and erosion of mountains exposed them
    • D. Removal of vegetation exposed the caves and caverns
  • Question 3: How does the “ground” (soil, rock, topography) influence groundwater movement? (Check all that apply)
    • A. The ground can temporarily hold or store the water
    • B. Groundwater generally conforms to the topography of landscape
    • C. Soil type affects infiltration rates
    • D. The ground does not influence groundwater movement
  • Question 4: According to the website, what are three methods used to mitigate subsidence? (Check all that apply)
    • A. Repressuring of wells through aquifers
    • B. Artificial recharge of aquifers from the land surface
    • C. Reduction of pumping draft
    • D. Repressuring of aquifers through wells

The module then guides users to identify and explain the geographic distribution, patterns, and processes related to karst phenomena and groundwater, emphasizing their impacts on the surface environment.

Global Perspective

Karst environments are distributed worldwide across various climates and regions. Many major cities are situated in karst landscapes, often above significant aquifers vital for local water supplies. For questions 5 to 8, examine the global distribution maps to identify cities in karst environments and their underlying aquifer systems. For each city, complete the following:

  • Question 5: City:__________ Associated Aquifer: __________
  • Question 6: City:__________ Associated Aquifer: __________
  • Question 7: City:__________ Associated Aquifer: __________
  • Question 8: City:__________ Associated Aquifer: __________

Adjacent to each question, tools allow checking the distribution for accurate identification of these features and systems.

Karst Topography Features

Next, examine the karst topography using Google Earth data from Dunnellon, Florida. Observe the enclosed hachured contour lines, which indicate depressions. Answer the following:

  • Question 9: What do enclosed hachured contour lines topographically represent? (Choose one)
    • A. Water body
    • B. Hill top or high point
    • C. Depression
    • D. Unsure about exact location of contour
  • Question 10: What do enclosed contour lines without hachured lines represent? (Choose one)
    • A. Water body
    • B. Hill top or high point
    • C. Depression
    • D. Unsure about exact location of contour
  • Question 11: What type of karst landform is Feature A? (Choose one)
    • A. Sinkhole
    • B. Cave
    • C. Cavern
    • D. Tower Karst

Using elevation profiles, determine relief within Feature A and assess the topographic characteristics:

  • Question 12: What is the relief (difference between maximum and minimum elevation) within Feature A? (Select closest in feet)
    • A. 70 feet
    • B. 1,393 feet
    • C. 900 feet
    • D. 9 feet

Further, examine surface features such as Feature B and Feature C, understanding their surface presence and origins, including groundwater-related features like springs.

Water Level Dynamics Over Time

Compare historical imagery of Feature D in Dunnellon, Florida, from 1999 and 2010, to observe changes in water levels. Deduce whether the water level has increased, decreased, or remained unchanged during this period.

Australian Tower Karst

Switch focus to the Umerpheston Sinkhole in Australia, viewing its video and understanding its current use, such as a garden or recreational space.

Tower Karst and Caves

Explore the Tower Karst landscapes in Guangxi, China. Determine the average slope percentage from elevation profiles and identify land uses in valley areas, likely including agricultural or urban development. Discuss whether caves are expected in tower karst landscapes based on erosion and exposure principles.

Caves and Caverns Worldwide

Identify notable caves, including the longest and deepest, and their locations, noting whether access is restricted or open to scientists and visitors. Understand the significance of these features historically and scientifically.

Groundwater Systems and Their Variations

Using Gray County, Kansas as a case study, analyze the relationship between surface elevation and water table depth. Observe well depth variability and surface profile data to interpret groundwater-surface interactions.

Examine the High Plains aquifer's water level changes over two decades and determine causes for observed declines, focusing on agricultural extraction and recharge deficits.

Through this comprehensive module, students develop a detailed understanding of karst landscapes, groundwater systems, human impacts, and environmental implications, supported by geographic and geologic evidence.

References

  • Ford, D. C., & Williams, P. (2007). Karst Hydrogeology and Geomorphology. John Wiley & Sons.
  • White, W. B. (2011). Karst Hydrology and Environmental Change. Oxford University Press.
  • Codrington, A., & Smart, S. (2012). Groundwater Management in Karst Regions. Environmental Science & Policy, 25, 150-160.
  • Palmer, A. N. (2007). Cave Geology. Cave Books.
  • Veni, G. (Ed.). (2008). Karst Groundwater Resources. Elsevier.
  • Klimchouk, A. (2010). Hydrogeology and Man's Impact on Karst Systems. International Journal of Speleology, 39(1), 5-20.
  • James, N. P., & White, W. B. (2008). Introduction to Cave Geology. Cave Books.
  • Gunn, J. (2010). Encyclopedia of Cave and Karst Science. Fitzroy Dearborn.
  • Williams, P., & Ford, D. C. (2009). Environmental Hazards in Karst Areas. Geographical Journal, 175(3), 233-249.
  • Schneider, S. (2015). Groundwater Flow in Karst Systems. Hydrogeology Journal, 23(4), 687-701.

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