Understanding Stalagmites

What is the origin of the word 'stalagmite'?

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

• It is derived from the Greek word for 'dripping'.

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

• It is based on the German word for 'mineral'.

Which of the following is NOT a material from which stalagmites can form?

• Sand

• Rat urine

• Calcium carbonate

• Lava

In the paintbrush analogy, what does the 'splat' on the floor represent?

• A stalactite forming

• A cave ceiling

• A stalagmite forming

• A mineral deposit

What happens when a stalactite and a stalagmite grow long enough to meet?

• They dissolve into the ground

• They form a new cave

• They create a column or pillar

• They stop growing

How can you remember that stalagmites grow from the ground?

• The word 'stalagmite' is similar to 'stalactite'.

• The word 'stalagmite' rhymes with 'height'.

• The word 'stalagmite' sounds like 'mite', which is a small insect.

• The word 'stalagmite' has a 'g' like 'ground'.