The Crystal Cave Video Flashcard

Front

What caused the large crystals to break and fall onto the cave floor?

Back

Ancient earthquakes are believed to have caused the large crystals to break and fall.

Front

How long have the crystals been in water in the cave?

Back

The crystals have been in water for hundreds of thousands of years.

Front

What is the selenite form of gypsum commonly used for?

Back

Gypsum is commonly used for drywall.

Front

Why do explorers wear big orange suits into the cave?

Back

They wear big orange suits to keep cool.

Front

What is the weight of the crystals in the cave?

Back

The crystals weigh approximately 50 tons.

Front

What is gypsum?

Back

Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate.

Front

What are the properties of selenite?

Back

Selenite is a transparent, crystalline form of gypsum that can be easily scratched.

Front

What is the significance of cave crystals?

Back

Cave crystals can provide insights into geological processes and the history of the Earth.

Front

How do crystals form in caves?

Back

Crystals form in caves through the evaporation of mineral-rich water, leaving behind solid mineral deposits.

Front

What role do earthquakes play in cave formations?

Back

Earthquakes can cause shifts in the earth that create spaces for caves and can also break existing crystals.