Stalactite and Stalagmite

Stalactite

A type of formation that hangs from the ceilings of caves, hot springs or manmade structures. Limestone caves is the most common location for these to form, however they also appear in the form of lava, ice, and concrete. Through the deposition of calcium carbonate in limestone, it contacts with water - containing carbon dioxide - to form a calcium bicarbonate solution: CaCO₃(s) + H₂O(l) + CO₂(aq) → Ca(HCO₃)₂(aq) this solution drips down the rock until it reaches the tip. Once coming into contact with air, the reaction is reversed and it becomes solid again. Ca(HCO₃)₂(aq) → CaCO₃(s) + H₂O(l) + CO₂(aq) REMEMBER: A STALACTITE IS "TIGHT" TO THE CEILING

Column

This is formed with the connection of a stalactite and stalagmite

Stalagmite

Very similar to the Stalactite. Is formed from the accumulation of ceiling drippings being deposited on the floor. The commonplace for distribution is in limestone caves. By the representation of this chemical reaction, the solution drop from stalactites form a solid on the floor: Ca(HCO₃)₂(aq) → CaCO₃(s) + H₂O(l) + CO₂(aq) REMEMBER: STALAGMITES "MIGHT" FORM ON THE FLOOR