Conditions for the development of true Karstic Topography

Karstic topography is a unique type of landscape that is formed due to the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. The development of true Karstic topography depends on several factors. Let's discuss these factors in detail.

Limestone should be porous and permeable
The first condition required for the development of true Karstic topography is that the limestone should be porous and permeable. Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is composed of calcium carbonate. It is soluble in water, and when it comes in contact with acidic groundwater, it dissolves slowly over time. If the limestone is not porous and permeable, the groundwater will not be able to penetrate it, and the dissolution process will not occur.

The limestone must be massive, thickly-bedded, well jointed
The second condition required for the development of true Karstic topography is that the limestone must be massive, thickly-bedded, and well-jointed. These features allow the water to flow freely through the rock and dissolve it more easily. If the limestone is not well-jointed, the water will not be able to flow through it, and the dissolution process will be slower.

The positions of limestone should be above the groundwater table
The third condition required for the development of true Karstic topography is that the positions of limestone should be above the groundwater table. If the limestone is below the groundwater table, it will be constantly saturated with water, and the dissolution process will be slower. If the limestone is above the groundwater table, it will be periodically exposed to the acidic groundwater, and the dissolution process will be faster.

The limestone should be highly folded, fractured or faulted
The fourth condition required for the development of true Karstic topography is that the limestone should be highly folded, fractured, or faulted. These features increase the permeability of the limestone and allow the water to flow more freely through it. If the limestone is not highly folded, fractured, or faulted, the water will not be able to flow through it as easily, and the dissolution process will be slower.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the condition that does not favor the development of true Karstic topography is that the limestone should not be porous and permeable. If the limestone is not porous and permeable, the groundwater will not be able to penetrate it, and the dissolution process will not occur. All the other conditions are necessary for the development of true Karstic topography.