stalagmite vs. stalactite

stalagmite vs. stalactite: What's the difference?

In caves, minerals deposited by dripping water form pointy shapes—those on the ceiling (pointing down like icicles) are called stalactites; those on the floor (pointing up) are called stalagmites. Here’s how to remember the difference: the ending -tite in stalactite begins with the letter T, which looks like a stalactite, and you’d have to hold on tight if you were hanging from one (honestly, you might be better off staying on the ground with the stalagmites). You can also remember that stalactite has a C, for ceiling, while stalagmite has a G, for ground.