Discovered in 1878, Luray Caverns in Virginia has a spactacular array of both stalagtites (attached to the roof) and stalagmites (rising from the ground). However, in this view, only stalagtites are present, each perfectly reflected in a shallow pool of water below. The formations are formed when a solution of calcium carbonate releases carbon dioxide, resulting in precipitation of lime. The crystallized calcite accumulates at the rate of one cubic inch every 120 years.
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