Question

Distinguish between Stalactite and stalagmite.

Answer 1

• Stalactites:

1. When the water containing dissolved calcite gradually drips from the ceiling of the caves, water evaporates and the remaining calcite hangs from the ceiling. Thus stalactites are formed.
2. Remember stalactites with ‘C’ meaning coming from ceiling.
3. Limestone stalactites form extremely slowly, usually less than 10 cm every 1000 years.

• Stalagmites:

1. When the calcite deposits rise upward like a pillar stalagmites are formed.
2. Remember stalagmites with ‘G’ coming from the ground.
3. The stalagmite formation occurs only under certain conditions within the underground cavern.