What Is a Hot Spring?
Hot springs occur naturally through various geologic processes that also form such phenomena as geysers and fumaroles. Hot springs are very popular vacation destinations due to their therapeutic benefits as well as their natural beauty.
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Definition
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A hot spring is a natural, small body of water warmed through hydrothermal action. Hot springs must be warmer than other surrounding ground to be considered a hot spring. A typical hot spring is well above the temperature of the surrounding earth, usually slightly above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of hot springs depends on the amount of heat supplied at depth, the water circulation rate and the mixture of cooler groundwater into the system.
Formation
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The earth's temperature increases with depth. As groundwater percolates deep in the earth, it increases in temperature, especially if it comes in close proximity to a magma chamber. Hot springs form when this water is transported quickly to the surface via a fracture in the rock or a fault line. The hottest springs usually form in limestone, where the hot water dissolves the rocks, widening crevices as the hot water travels along. The rate of flow and the temperature is generally related to the interconnectivity of the fractures in the rocks: The larger and more interconnected the fractures in the rock, the higher the flow rate and temperature of the water.
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Locations
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Hot springs typically occur in areas of recent volcanic activity, fault areas or in areas above magma chambers. Hot springs can be found worldwide. Some locations include Hot Springs in Arkansas, Glenwood Springs in Colorado, Silver Springs in Florida, Steamboat Springs in Nevada, Dalhousie Springs in Australia, and Deildartunguhver in Iceland. These locations are often visited as tourist attractions and for therapeutic uses.
Therapeutic Uses and Risks
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Hot springs are often appreciated for their therapeutic benefits. The warm temperature and high mineral content of the water are suggested to help with various skin ailments such as eczema and psoriasis as well as conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyaligia and pain associated with lupus. Many spas and rehabilitation centers open around hot springs due to these benefits.
However, there are some risks associated with hot water. First of all, hot springs are often too hot for pregnant women and children. In addition, several conditions have been associated with hot springs. There have been confirmed cases of legionella pneumonia and Acanthamoeba infection due to the use of hot springs. Acanthamoeba can thrive in hot springs, and infection can lead to encephalitis.
Geothermal Energy
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Hot springs and the surrounding rocks offer great potential for geothermal energy. Steamboat Springs in Nevada is a prime example of springs used for their geothermal capacity. The hot springs in Steamboat Springs exceed 190 degrees Celsius. Three geothermal energy plants are supplied by the springs. In 1999, these plants were able to produce 475,000 MWhr of energy, enough to supply 30% of the energy needed for the state.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jeremy Doorteen, http://www.sxc.hu
