An Attempt at Modelling Hydrothermal Eruptions

Abstract

Hydrothermal eruptions, like geysers, are intriguing phenomena; they are spectacular while in motion and generally while not. Their non-smooth nature makes for difficulty in both conceptual and mathematical modelling. In this paper, an attempt is made at a brief summary of some of the contemporary wisdom about hydrothermal eruptions under the notional headings of How? Why? When? and Where? This is followed by a brief flurry of equations which might be used tomodel an eruption in progress, together with some solutions which indicate what properties the current model possesses. The main aim of the author is to speculate, then gather feedback from those many scientists who have parts of thejigsaw in their bags of knowledge, so that some solid advance may be made in the modelling of hydrothermal eruptions.