30 August 2024
World Water Series – Geothermal Springs
Many of us have enjoyed the comfort of a warm bath but imagine having a naturally heated one right in your own backyard, without the need for electricity or sunshine. For those who enjoy travelling and have visited geothermal areas, you will know that they are truly a natural wonder.
In this article, we will explore how geothermal springs work, their various uses, and the types of geothermal springs. We will also highlight a few regions that are home to these incredible natural wonders.
In simple terms geothermal springs are created when rain and snow seep below the Earth’s surface as ground water. This allows water to travel to an area between the Earth’s core and crust where it is heated and pushed back towards the surface. While some springs are suitable for relaxing, others contain chemical compounds that may react and become poisonous, and some are too hot for bathing.
Types of Geothermal Springs
Thermal Spring – Produced by geothermally heated water making its way to the Earth’s surface.
Mud Pots – These form in high- temperature geothermal areas where water is in short supply. The thickness of the mud usually changes along with seasonal changes in the water table.
Geyser – A rare kind of hot spring that is under pressure and erupts, sending jets of water and steam into the air.
Magma – These hot springs occur when molten rock heats the water. In areas with active volcanos, the water is usually too hot to immerse in and can result in scalding or death.
Notable Geothermal Springs Around the World:
United States
The western part of the United States has the most geysers, with Yellowstone National Park being a prime location. Old Faithful, named for its regular eruptions, releases between 3,700-8,400 gallons of water each time, reaching heights up to 180 feet.
Japan
Japan, with its mountainous terrain and numerous volcanos, boasts over 3000 hot springs. The Japanese macaque monkeys are famous for spending time in these springs to keep warm, but also lowers their stress hormone levels.
New Zealand
Rotorua, New Zealand, is rich in geothermal activity and has the largest mud pool in the country. Originally the site of a large mud volcano, it was destroyed through erosion. Lady Knox Geyser in Rotorua reaches heights of up to 10-20 metres. The geothermal park in Rotorua is sculptured out of volcanic activity, vibrant in colours, and a sightseeing attraction extending over 18 square kilometres. It is also home to the largest sinter terrace in the southern hemisphere.
Iceland
In Iceland, the hot springs are heated by volcanic sources, situated at the unique juncture of North America and Eurasian tectonic plates. This causes significant geothermal activity, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The Blue Lagoon, a famous geothermal pool, is fed by seawater nearly 2,000 metres beneath the surface where it reaches 240 degrees Celsius. As it rises, it captures silica and other minerals, making the water a warm 38 degrees Celsius when it emerges, much to the delight of locals and tourists.
In conclusion, geothermal springs are a fascinating and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. They display the incredible power and beauty of the Earth’s geothermal activity. From dynamic geysers to tranquil hot springs, these formations offer opportunities for relaxing, recreation and exploration. So, next time you find yourself near a geothermal spring, take a moment to ponder on the extraordinary processes that create these natural marvels.
