Stalactites EarthCache
Hidden : 10/26/2018
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:


This may seem a strange place for an earth cache but look up!


You will see a phenomenon usally associated with cold dark places deep underground.


A stalactite is a type of formation that hangs from the ceiling of caves, hot springs, or manmade structures such as bridges and mines. Directly below on the ground stalagmites form.



Stalactites can also form on concrete. The way stalactites form on concrete is due to different chemistry than those that form naturally in caves and is the result of the presence of calcium oxide in the concrete. This calcium oxide reacts with any rainwater that penetrates the concrete to form a solution.

Over time this solution reaches the edge of the concrete and, if the concrete is suspended in the air, for example, in a ceiling or a beam, then this will drip down from the edge.

As it drips the solution comes into contact with carbon dioxide in the air resulting in another chemical reaction where calcium carbonate is produced.


As this solution drips down it leaves behind particles of calcium carbonate and over time these form into a stalactite.

On the ground below where the drips fall you will often see a white patch - the beginnings of a stalagmite. These tend to get damaged by people walking on them and rarely form more than a faint bump, however when seen underground they can be many meters high.

To claim a find on this Earthcache, you must answer the questions below and email me the answers the following 5 questions and one Optional. Questions 1 will require some research, Question 2-3-4-and 5 can be answered at the location. You do not need to wait for a reply before logging, however if I don't receive an email within 2 weeks I may delete your log!


1) What solution is created when the calcium oxide in the concrete reacts with rain water?

2) a) What colour(s) are the stalactites? b) Are the tips of these stalactites pointy or rounded?

3) Stalactites in these conditions grow, on average, 1cm per year. Using this information, estimate how many years the longest stalactites have been growing for.

4) What features usually grow directly below stalactites, and in your opinion why won't they grow here?

5) On the side of the walkway under the bridge are three lights. these lights have a number on them. What is the number?

6) (Optional) Add a photo of you/your GPS. WITHOUT SHOWING ANY OF THE QUESTIONS.


Sources
Mussieux, R. & Nelson, M. (1998). A Traveller's Guide to Geological Wonders in Alberta. Mishawaka, IN: Better World Books.
Wikipedia on Wikipedia.
Hicks, Forrest L. (1950). "Formation and mineralogy of stalactites and stalagmites"

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