Which process limits stalactite growth in arid caves?

💡 Explanation

Stalactite growth in arid caves is limited by lowered cave air humidity which reduces evaporation, because the water and mineral solution cannot precipitate. Reduced evaporation decreases the rate of deposition in the oversaturated solution of calcium carbonate, therefore stalactite production slows, rather than continues.

• Which process determines cirque orientation, influencing snow accumulation and glacial formation?
• Which risk escalates inside deep canyons cutting through pyroclastic deposits?
• Which topographic outcome results as acidic runoff saturates carbonate bedrock?
• Which outcome occurs when building foundations sit astride a creeping transform fault?
• Which outcome occurs when decreased surface friction stabilizes Hadley cells?
• Which crustal outcome results when the stress exceeds frictional strength?