Stalactites hang from the ceiling of a cave. They are formed when water seeps through the rock above the cave and drips onto the floor. The water evaporates, leaving behind a mineral deposit. Over time, these deposits build up and form stalactites.
Stalagmites grow up from the floor of a cave. They are formed when water drips from the ceiling and lands on the floor. The water evaporates, leaving behind a mineral deposit. Over time, these deposits build up and form stalagmites.
Stalactites and stalagmites can both grow to be very large. Some stalactites can be as long as 100 feet, and some stalagmites can be as tall as 60 feet.
The shape of a stalactite or stalagmite is determined by the way the water drips. If the water drips slowly, the mineral deposits will build up evenly and the stalactite or stalagmite will be smooth. If the water drips quickly, the mineral deposits will build up more quickly on one side than the other, and the stalactite or stalagmite will be irregular in shape.
Stalactites and stalagmites are a beautiful and fascinating sight to behold. They are a reminder of the power of nature and the slow passage of time.
