What is a stalagmite?
Q: What is a stalagmite?
A: A stalagmite is a column-shaped formation that rises from the floor of a limestone cave when mineralized solutions drip from the ceiling and deposits of calcium carbonate form on the ground.
Q: What is the corresponding formation on the ceiling of a cave?
A: The corresponding formation on the ceiling of a cave is known as a stalactite.
Q: How can you remember which formation hangs from the ceiling (stalactite) and which rises from the floor (stalagmite)?
A: You can remember which formation hangs from the ceiling and which rises from the floor by noticing that StalaCtite has a "c" for "ceiling" and the T in StalacTite resembles one hanging from the ceiling, while StalaGmite has a "g" for "ground" and the M in StalagMite resembles a formation rising from the floor.
Q: Why are visitors to caves with stalactites and stalagmites asked not to touch the rock formations?
A: Visitors to caves with stalactites and stalagmites are asked not to touch the rock formations because the formation is considered to still be growing and forming. Skin oils can disturb where the mineral water will cling, which affects the development of the rock formation and makes it not natural anymore.
Q: Can stalactites and stalagmites form on concrete ceilings and floors?
A: Yes, stalactites and stalagmites can form on concrete ceilings and floors, but they form much more quickly on concrete than in the natural cave environment.
Q: What is the cause of stalagmites forming?
A: Stalagmites form when mineralized solutions drip from the ceiling of a cave and deposits of calcium carbonate form columns on the ground.
Q: What is another meaning of "stalagmites"?
A: Stalagmites may also refer to a type of fungus.
