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Stalactite Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.
Stalactite facts for kids
A stalactite is a form that can be found on the ceiling of a cave. When a drop of water flows down the stalactite, the water evaporates and leaves a mineral deposit of calcite. This slowly increases the length and thickness of the stalactite.
The corresponding formation on the floor underneath a stalactite is known as a stalagmite. Given enough time, these formations can meet. The results are known as columns.
Images for kids
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Demonstration of drip stone formation in a lab.
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Shark tooth stalactites.
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Calthemite soda straw stalactites under concrete building
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Image showing the six most common speleothems with labels. Enlarge to view labels.
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Concrete stalactites.
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Stalactites at the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan, Philippines.
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Stalactite in Doolin Cave, Ireland measuring 20 ft (6.54m) long.
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Mineralized water drop forming at bottom of stalactites.
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Stalactites of the type called "soda straws" from the Choranche caves in the Vercors, France
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A caver standing beside the column in Crackpot Cave
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Splash stalactites
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Tubular lava stalactites
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A tubular lava helictite