Abstract
Abstract The physics of high-temperature hydrothermal venting and in particular the effects of the buoyancy flux on the background oceanic circulation are reviewed. The central theme is that the venting is dynamically active and forces oceanic flows on a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Vent fluid is not simply advected by the prevailing currents, but can actively set the scales of the flow. The cascade of scales (from fast to slow and small to large) discussed is: the buoyant plume, lateral spreading and mesoscale geostrophic vortices and the basin-scale plume. The focus is on models and observations relevant to the last two phases for which the Earth’s rotation plays a significant part. Some discussion of the observational requirements for the resolution of these flows is given. The fact that small-scale buoyant convection can drive flows on scales many orders of magnitude larger can have important effects on the dispersal of vent fluid, estimates of hydrothermal heat flux and the establishment and maintenance of vent field biological communities.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
