Understanding Stalactites

What is the origin of the word 'stalactite'?

• It is derived from the Greek word 'stalazzo', meaning 'to drip'.

• It comes from the Latin word for 'stone'.

• It originates from the French word for 'cave'.

• It is a modern term created by geologists.

Which of the following materials can stalactites be made from?

• Only minerals like calcium carbonate

• Only lava

• Only mud

• Minerals, lava, mud, and even chemicals from rat urine

How do stalactites form in caves?

• By wind erosion over time

• Through the accumulation of dust particles

• By minerals left behind from dripping water

• From the growth of plant roots

How long can it take for a stalactite to grow 10 centimeters?

• 100,000 years

• 10,000 years

• 1,000 years

• 1,000,000 years

What mnemonic can help remember the direction stalactites grow?

• The 'C' in 'ceiling' and 'stalactite' both indicate upward growth.

• The word 'tights' in 'stalactites' suggests they hang downwards.

• The 'T' in 'stalactite' stands for 'top'.

• The 'S' in 'stalactite' stands for 'sideways'.