Abstract
Abstract In this study we conducted observations of the Onikobe geyser, NE Japan, by deploying a tiltmeter and an acoustic sensor close to the vent, a flow pressure sensor at the conduit exit, and measuring water temperature at ground level. The data from these instruments are consistent with the model of geysers which involves effusion process of boiling due to depressurization. During the observation period, the geyser generally effused water for about 90 s every 10 mins, although during certain periods these times randomly shortened to about 60 s and 6 mins, respectively. Tilt records show a strong correlation with the short and long effusion times, reflecting water movement in at least two chambers beneath the vent. We are able to empirically predict the duration of effusion from tilt data, although flow pressure does not vary with effusion time.
Highlights
Geyser activity is well known for intermittent activity of hot-water effusion
Our observational data are consistent with the mechanism of geyser effusion described by Fukutomi (1942a, b, c) and Kieffer (1984): (1) prior to effusion, a constant supply of hot water from deeper levels fills the water chambers; (2) the upper parts of the water are cooled by the atmosphere and thereby act as a cap to the underlying hot water; (3) when the upper cold water exits the vent, the underlying hot water is subject to depressurization and boils; (4) boiling water within the chamber rapidly effuses; (5) once the level of hot water within the chamber has sufficiently decreased, the effusion stops and the cycle begins again
Summary The main results obtained from analyses of continuous measurements of tilt data, flow pressure at the vent, acoustic data, and water temperature, are summarized as follows
Summary
Geyser activity is well known for intermittent activity of hot-water effusion. The effusion process looks quite similar to volcanic eruptions, and some geysers are characterized by regular interval time and duration, which are recognized in Strombolian type eruptions and volcanic tremor. Geyser, NE Japan, and flow pressure at the exit of the conduit to continuously record data both leading up to and during effusion stages. Because this geyser is a sightseeing attraction, the exit of the conduit is channeled through an iron pipe whose top is about 1.5 m above the ground surface; this acts to increase the height of the effused water column.
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