Valentine Lava Tube
This passage near the entrance to Valentine Cave displays lines and ridges markings that reflect the fluctuating levels of lava flowing in the tube. The ceiling above the highest lava flow level displays an abundance of lava-cicles. Lava-cicles form from either lava splattering and dripping from the ceiling or the melting of ceiling rock from the high radiant heat and hot vapors moving in the passage above the flowing lava (Harter, 1982). Today the lava-cicles are places where moisture condensates and drips from the ceiling. The lava-cicles are both fragile and can be razor sharp and should not be touched.
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Last modified: 12/6/2010