Stalactite+formation+TB

= __Stalactites__ = = =  

** Stalactite's chemical formula: ** ** Ca(HCO3)2(aq) ---> CaCO3(s) + H2O(l) + CO2(aq) **

**Calcium (Ca), Oxygen (O), Hydrogen (H), and Carbon (C) are the elements found in stalactites. It involves liquids (l), solids (s), and aqueous (aq). This type of reaction is a Decomposition, which means a single compound was broken down into two or more smaller compounds. Dripping water is necessary in this process because the word "stalactite," comes from the Greek root "stalasso," which means "to drip." The average stalactite grows 0.13 mm a year.**

**Chemical reactions are very important in our life. A chemical reaction is "the breaking of bonds to form new subastances called the products" (Foundations of Physical Science Paage 655). Chemical reactions are used Without chemical reactions, we couldn't bake or cook, and we couldnt make or use a lot of the products we use on a daily basis.**

**There Are Three Elements in Stalactites Formation.** **There's Calcium, and that is essential for living organisms.** **Another One is Carbon and it also occurs in all living organisms.** **Then There's H2O ( water ) that consists in Stalactite Formation.** **Stalactite formation is what made things like Carlsbad Caverns, but before they can form the water all must be drained from that portion of the cave.**


 * The stalactites are formed when calcium carbonate in solution in the water is deposited out, but this process is not one of simple evaporation. The air in most caves, even in the most arid regions, is highly moist; therefore, when water soaking down from above reaches the air of the open cave, it does not lose water to the air and leave minerals behind. **

**Stalactites are only grown in limestone caves. Limestone is very important in ancient architecture. Limestone was used to build the Great Pryamid in Egypt. Limestone is also used in glass making, medicines, cosmetics, and some sculptures. Stalactites are also very interesting to look at when you visit caves like Carlsbad in New Mexico.**