Which term describes a landscape formed by the dissolution of rocks through surface or ground water?

The term that describes a landscape formed by the dissolution of rocks through surface or ground water is karst. Karst landscapes are characterized by features such as sinkholes, caves, and underground rivers that develop when soluble rocks like limestone, marble, or gypsum dissolve due to the action of water. This dissolution process creates unique geological formations and a distinctive terrain that separates karst environments from other types of landscapes.

Erosion, while related, refers more broadly to the processes that wear away rocks and soil, often involving water but not specifically tied to the dissolution of soluble rock types. A canyon typically forms from the erosion of rock and soil by flowing water, creating steep-sided valleys, but it does not necessarily involve the chemical dissolution process that defines karst. A plateau is a flat or gently sloping elevated area and does not describe any dissolution processes or the unique formations resulting from them. Therefore, karst is the appropriate term for landscapes shaped specifically by the dissolution of rock materials due to water.