Weird Places: Mexico's Giant Crystal Cave

The Giant Crystal Cave in Naica, Mexico, was discovered in 2000 by miners. It contains the largest crystals ever found, formed under extreme conditions of high temperature and humidity. The cave's environment is inhospitable, making research challenging. The crystals are made of selenite, a form of gypsum, which formed over half a million years due to the slow transformation of anhydrite in water. Other caves in the area have smaller crystals due to faster cooling. The cave's unique conditions allowed for the growth of these massive crystals, and they may continue to grow if the cave is reflooded.

What were the mining company's initial hopes when they started pumping water out of the cave?

Describe the conditions inside the giant crystal cave and their effects on human survival.

How did the geological history of Naica Mountain contribute to the formation of the giant crystal cave?

What is the significance of the temperature in the formation of selenite crystals?

What will happen to the crystals in the giant crystal cave once the mining operations cease?