STALAGMITE vs. STALACTITE

Definitions

  • a STALAGMITE is a deposit of calcium carbonate formed by the dripping of water onto the cave's floor, into the shape of a large inverted icicle, rising from the ground.
  • a STALACTITE is a deposit of calcium carbonate formed by the trickling of water from the roof of a cave.

Mnemonic Device

  • Remember, a STALAGMITE pushes up with all its might, and a STALACTITE holds on tight to the roof.

Variations

  • stalaGmite - from the Ground
  • stalaCtite - from the Ceiling
  • Gee (G), the mites fly up, and see (C) the tights fall down!
  • Think of ants in your pants: The mites go up and the tights come down.

Explanation

to distinguish between the words STALAGMITE and STALACTITE