How do stalactites and stalagmites form?

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Stalactites form when groundwater seeps through cracks in the ceiling of a cavern. When the water reaches air inside the cave, some of the dissolved carbon dioxide escapes from the drop, and calcite begins to precipitate. Deposition occurs as a ring around the edge of the water drop, and as drop after drop follows, each leaves a trace of calcium behind, thus creating a hollow limestone tube. Often the hollow tube becomes plugged or the supply of water increases, forcing water to flow and deposit along the outside of the tube. As deposition continues, the stalactite becomes more conical in shape. Stalagmites form on the cavern floor when water falls from the cavern ceiling. The drops deposit calcium, which slowly builds a formation that slowly grows toward the ceiling.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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Which of the following best describes the trend in the United States wetlands during this century?

a) An increase in coastal wetlands and a decrease in freshwater wetlands b) A decrease in coastal wetlands and an increase in freshwater wetlands c) An increase in coastal wetlands and an increase in freshwater wetlands d) A decrease in coastal wetlands and a decrease in freshwater wetlands

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Briefly explain radiative equilibrium

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Calcification concentrates the mineral ______________ in the soil. (two words)

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Explain why highest summer temperatures usually occur over desert regions as opposed to humid areas with more vegetation.

What will be an ideal response?

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences