Final answer:
The monument-size figures in Carlsbad Caverns were mostly formed by stalagmites, which are upward-growing formations from the cave floor, and stalactites, which are downward-growing formations from the cave ceiling.The correct answer is option C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most of the monument-size figures in Carlsbad Caverns were formed by stalagmites and stalactites. These are cave formations made of calcium carbonate.
Stalactites hang from the ceiling of the cave and form as mineral-laden water drips from the ceiling, depositing calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as the carbon dioxide in the water dissipates into the environment.
Similarly, stalagmites grow from the floor of the cave upward as drops fall from stalactites above and deposit more CaCO3. Over time, when a stalactite meets a stalagmite, they can form a cave column.
Flowstones are formed by thin sheets of water running over walls or floors of caves, leaving layers of calcite as the water evaporates.The correct answer is option C.