Question

Which agent is responsible for formation of stalactites and stalagmites and where are they formed?

Answer 1

1. The work of groundwater is responsible for the formation of stalactites and stalagmites.
2. In areas of limestone, the alkaline water seeps through the roof of the limestone caves.
3. When this water evaporates, minerals get deposited at the bottom and at the top of the limestone caves. This leads to formation of stalactites and stalagmites.
4. Water from the end of the stalactite leaves more calcite in a pile on the cave floor, and pretty soon a cone-like stalagmite forms. That's why stalactites and stalagmites are usually formed in pairs.
5. Sometimes they grow together to form a pillar or column.
6. They are formed in the Bora caves of Vishakhapatnam district in Andhra Pradesh and this is considered as one of the major limestone caves in India.