Why do hot springs stay warm year-round?
Quick Answer
Hot springs are warmed by groundwater heated by hot rocks or magma deep underground. The water rises because it becomes less dense and pressure changes help drive it upward.
The Full Story
Rain or snowmelt can seep into the ground, travel deep enough to be heated by Earth’s internal heat, and then return to the surface. In volcanic regions, the heat source can be magma or very hot rock, while in other areas it may be the normal geothermal gradient. The water remains warm through winter because the source of heat is below the surface and not dependent on the weather. Famous geothermal areas such as Iceland and Yellowstone show how active Earth’s internal heat can be.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"A hot spring is Earth heating water from below — no electricity required."
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