What characterizes karst geology?

Karst geology is specifically characterized by unique landforms that result from the dissolution of soluble rocks, typically limestone, which can lead to features like sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems. This process often results in a landscape that appears barren, with exposed rock surfaces and irregular topography, punctuated by depressions due to the collapse of subsurface cavities.

The presence of sinkholes is particularly distinctive of karst terrain, as they indicate areas where the underlying rock has been eroded away, creating a sudden drop in the surface.

In contrast, lush forests and wetlands, flat plains and broad valleys, or mountainous terrain with cliffs do not accurately capture the defining characteristics of karst landscapes, as these features tend to suggest different geological processes or ecosystems. Therefore, the description of barren rocky ground with sinkholes aligns directly with the typical features found in karst geology.