| 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. |
