Termonalähteet

Termonalähteet, often translated as thermal springs or hot springs, are geological formations where geothermally heated groundwater emerges from the Earth's surface. This heating occurs due to the Earth's internal heat, also known as geothermal energy. As groundwater percolates through the ground, it can come into contact with hot rocks or magma, absorbing heat. The heated water then rises to the surface through fissures and cracks in the Earth's crust, creating springs.

The temperature of thermal springs can vary widely, from just warm to boiling point. The mineral content of these springs also differs depending on the rocks and minerals the water has dissolved during its underground journey. Common dissolved minerals include silica, sulfur compounds, and various salts, which can give thermal springs distinctive colors and smells.

Thermal springs are found in geologically active areas, particularly along tectonic plate boundaries, volcanic regions, and areas with thin crusts. They have been utilized by humans for millennia for various purposes, including bathing, heating, and even for their perceived therapeutic properties. The presence of thermal springs can indicate underlying geothermal activity, making them of interest to geologists and energy researchers exploring geothermal power potential.