EarthWords is an on-going series in which we shed some light on the complicated, often difficult-to-pronounce language of science. Think of us as your terminology tour-guides, and meet us back here every week for a new word!

Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details

The EarthWord: Karst

Definition:

• Despite sounding like a Batman punch, karst actually refers to a type of landscape where the underlying rock formations are partially eroded by water. Usually, these areas are made up of limestone or marble.

• The most famous aspect of karst landscapes is caves, which predominantly form when groundwater dissolves limestone and erodes open spaces in the rock.

Etymology:

• Karst is the German name for a limestone region around the Italian city of Trieste.

Use/Significance in the Earth Science Community:

• Karst landscapes make up a large part of the United States, and because of their ability to hold water, are often home to significant sources of groundwater.

• Karst landscapes are also home, as mentioned, to the vast majority of the world’s caves, which themselves are unique ecosystems with important species.

• Finally, because they’re susceptible to erosion beneath the surface, karst landscapes are also at risk for sinkholes, which can range from small to large enough to swallow entire buildings.

USGS Use:

• USGS studies the groundwater aspect of karst in its Office of Groundwater, tracking groundwater quality, quantity, and movement.

• On the cave side of things, USGS studies bats, aquatic insects, and other ecosystem aspects of cave ecology.

• And, last but not least, USGS studies sinkhole hazards, including what causes them and what areas are susceptible.

Next EarthWord: This EarthWord sounds like some flu meds, but it’s closer to runny rivers than runny noses...

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