Simple Q&A D&D 3.5 (by RAW) XXIII

[unseenmage]

Consider the wording of detect magic itself for a bit:
snip
Lingering Aura
A magical aura lingers after its original source dissipates (in the case of a spell) or is destroyed (in the case of a magic item). If detect magic is cast and directed at such a location, the spell indicates an aura strength of dim (even weaker than a faint aura).
Because an instantaneous spell/power is no longer functioning (the energy has come and gone), detect magic can only detect the dim lingering aura; for wall of stone, this would last for 1d6 minutes.

Thank you, thank you. Much appreciated. I suspected the solution was squirreled away in the Detect magic rules but honestly I was finishing my first college homework in almost 10 years and didn't take the time to check.

I appreciate each of your assistance greatly.

Edit:
Q391

Is this appropriate grounds for allowing the spell Animate Objects to animate Quintessence?

Esp. as it can be held and excepting that it doesn't have hp/hardness.