Here's the difference:
* Stalactites: These hang down from the ceiling of a cave. They form when water containing dissolved calcium carbonate drips from the ceiling, and some of the calcium carbonate precipitates out as the water evaporates. Over time, these deposits build up and form long, icicle-like formations.
* Stalagmites: These grow up from the floor of a cave. They form when the water that has dripped from the ceiling and formed a stalactite falls to the floor. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind calcium carbonate deposits that build up into a cone-shaped formation.
So, remember: stalactites hang tight, while stalagmites stand strong!
