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Weathering and Erosion (Weathering (Chemical Weathering (Carbonation (As…

- - - - Rainwater passes through vertical joints in the limestone.
        Carbonation then causes weathering of the entire surface and the joints. They become wider.
        This process creates grooves or gaps called Grikes. The blocks in-between are called Clints.
        Combination of these features = Limestone Pavement
    - - Rivers dissolve limestone.
        A river can disappear underground when it reaches a limestone surface.
        The water widens the joints and bedding plans through carbonation.
        Pollnagollum, Burren
  - - - The water flows through passages. Carbonation enlarges these passages creating caves
    - - Stalactites
        Water seeps through rock and carries dissolved limsestone.
        Water eventually reaches the cave roof.
        The drops slowly evaporate and leave behind small deposits of pure limestone called Calcite.
        Gradually calcite builds up to from icicle-like shapes called stalactites.
      - Stalagmites
        The drops of water may also fall on the ground and evaporate.
        Once again the calcite builds up. forming icicle-like shapes called Stalagmites.
      - Pillars
        After thousands of years a stalactite and stalagmite can meet forming a pillar or column
- - - - Breaks up rocks into smaller pieces
      - Freeze-thaw action
        
        Scree is the broken rock.
        
        Freeze-Thaw Action Steps
  - - - As rain forms it takes in carbon dioxide. The rainwater mixes with carbon monoxide to create a weak carbonic acid (H2CO3).
        Huge effect on limestone as Limestone contains 80% calcium carbonate.
        The weak carbonic acid reacts with the calcium carbonate and dissolves the limestone.
      - Carbonation occurs in areas where bare limestone rock is exposed to weather.
        Here the soil has been removed by glaciation, leaving bare limsetonse rock exposed
        Burren, Co.Clare