Question

Composed of water, acids, and mucous secretions. what types of chemical bonds are likely to anchor and stabilize these long, slender strands found hanging in the caves?

Answer 1

The correct answer is hydrogen bonds.

Snottite is a product of extremophilic bacteria which hang from the walls and ceilings of caves and are similar to stalactites, but have the consistency of nasal mucus.The main component of snottite is a sulphuric acid which is a waste product of bacteria.

Answer 2

The long slender strands found in the caves are secretions of the glow worms that dwell there. The strands are sticky and glow in the darkness of the cave. Their purpose is to catch the insects by attracting to light and get them stuck to the strands. The strands are attached to the roof of the cave by adhesion. The strands contain urea and uric acid. Urea is considered to a bonding agent based on its use in the adhesive industry. Thus the strands are probably being held in place by the urea and uric acid making an adhesive bond with the roof of the cave.