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The stages in the formation of stalactites and stalagmites
As water saturated with calcium carbonate drips through the ceiling of a cave, successive rings of calcite crystals form a tiny tube or straw stalactite. Straws no more than 2-3mm thick have been known to grow to a length of several metres. If the straw is blocked, the water then is forced to flow down the outside of the tube, and calcite deposits thicken the tube into the traditional carrot shaped stalactite. Water saturated with calcium carbonate dripping on the floor builds stalagmites, which in time may join stalactites to form columns. Variations in the minerals dissolved in the water and the speed of its movement can produce a range of cave formations ranging from gracefully curving flowstone curtains to convoluted helictites. |
