PROCESS LENGTH SCALES AS A FRAMEWORK FOR UNDERSTANDING FLOW, TRANSPORT, AND EVOLUTION OF THE KARST CRITICAL ZONE

In order to interpret the variations in water quality parameters at karst springs, we developed a theoretical framework for estimation of the length scales over which chemical and thermal variations can propagate as a function of flow path properties. Mass and heat transport theory demonstrate that different signals carry different information about the system. Here, I will explain how this framework can be applied to the study of the flow of solutes and heat through the karst critical zone, and examine some extensions and qualifications of the theory that are relevant in the case of epikarst. Several previous studies have examined length scales related to epikarst development and distribution. I will review this work, within the context of process length scales, and discuss several possible extensions and complications.