Tulenlähde

Tulenlähde is a Finnish term that translates to "fire source" or "spring of fire." It is most commonly associated with the phenomenon of natural gas seeps that ignite, creating a continuous flame fueled by subterranean gas. These occurrences are rare and often found in areas with geological activity.

The most well-known example of a tulenlähde is located in the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge area of China, where a natural gas seep has been burning for centuries. Indigenous peoples in various regions have historically attributed spiritual or mystical significance to these perpetual flames, viewing them as sacred sites or manifestations of the divine.

Geologically, tulenlähde formations are typically linked to deposits of fossil fuels, such as natural gas, that migrate to the surface through fissures or faults in the Earth's crust. The ignition can occur through a variety of means, including lightning strikes or spontaneous combustion due to the presence of certain gases. While some tulenlähde are naturally occurring and have burned for extended periods, others may be temporary and related to human activities like oil and gas extraction. The study of these phenomena provides insights into subsurface geology and hydrocarbon migration.