What are Stalactites and Stalagmites? | Let's Explore Caves! | SciShow Kids

The video explores the fascinating world of caves, initially perceived as dark and spooky. It introduces stalactites and stalagmites, explaining their formation through water's role in rock erosion. An experiment with sugar and water demonstrates how water can dissolve and deposit materials, similar to how caves are formed. The video connects this experiment to the natural process of cave formation, illustrating how water carries and deposits rock particles to create stalactites and stalagmites over time.

What is the mnemonic to remember the difference between stalactites and stalagmites?

• Stalactites have a 'C' for ceiling, and stalagmites have a 'G' for ground.

• Stalactites grow from the ground, and stalagmites hang from the ceiling.

• Stalactites are always larger than stalagmites.

• Stalactites and stalagmites are both found only on cave floors.

How does water change rocks in caves over time?

• By freezing them into ice.

• By turning them into sand immediately.

• By slowly breaking them down into smaller pieces.

• By making them softer instantly.

What happens to sugar when it is mixed with water in the investigation?

• It becomes visible and floats on top.

• It dissolves and becomes invisible but can still be tasted.

• It changes color and becomes bitter.

• It turns into a solid block at the bottom.

What is left behind when water carrying dissolved rock particles evaporates in a cave?

• The dissolved rock particles form stalactites or stalagmites.

• Only water droplets remain.

• Nothing is left behind.

• The cave becomes completely dry.

What is the role of water in forming stalactites and stalagmites?

• Water has no role in their formation.

• Water directly carves these structures from the cave walls.

• Water freezes to form these structures.

• Water carries rock particles that are left behind as it evaporates.