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Lobby > Exhibits > Scientific Research > Hydrothermal Research > Vital Signs of the Earth > Thermal Disturbances
Hydrothermal Research
THERMAL DISTURBANCES
Small changes occur every day at Norris, but occasionally the geyser basin undergoes large-scale and dramatic transformations that last up to a few weeks. During these “thermal disturbances,” the water levels in hydrothermal features may rise or fall, temperature and eruption patterns may vary, the chemistry and appearance of the features may change, and new hot water features may appear.
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Congress Pool can change from a placid hot spring into a churning mudpot during a thermal disturbance. |
Theories:
The disturbances may be caused by eruptions within the
underground reservoirs that supply water to the hydrothermal features.
OR
The disturbances may occur because of fluctuations in cool surface water entering the underground system.
OR
The disturbances may be related to earthquakes or changes within the underlying magma chamber.
OR
Something else entirely!
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Parts of Norris Geyser Basin closed to the public in 2003 because
temperatures along the main trail rose until they were close to boiling and several new hydrothermal features suddenly appeared. Researchers
temporarily installed seven seismographs, five GPS receivers, and temperature
data loggers to monitor the changes.
Theories:
The changes may be the result of a thermal disturbance occurring during a drought.
OR
The changes may be related to variations within the magma chamber.
OR
The changes may be related to seismic activity. Earthquakes occur frequently at Norris Geyser Basin because it sits at the intersection of three faults.
OR
Something else entirely!
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