hydrothermal

[ hahy-druh-thur-muhl ]

adjective

, Geology.

1. noting or pertaining to the action of hot, aqueous solutions or gases within or on the surface of the earth.

hydrothermal

/ ˌhaɪdrəʊˈθɜːməl /

adjective

1. of or relating to the action of water under conditions of high temperature, esp in forming rocks and minerals

hydrothermal

/ hī′drə-thûr′məl /

1. Relating to or produced by hot water, especially water heated underground by the Earth's internal heat.
2. ◆ Hydrothermal energy is power that is generated using the Earth's hot water.

Derived Forms

• ˌhydroˈthermally, adverb

Other Words From

• hydro·thermal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydrothermal¹

First recorded in 1840–50; hydro- ¹ + thermal

Example Sentences

“Magma are extremely energetic. They are the heat source that power the hydrothermal systems that leads to geothermal energy. Why not go to the source?” asks Prof Lavelle.

From BBC

Scientists believe hydrothermal water vents blast the core’s heat upward, thawing an expansive ocean that sloshes roughly 15 miles below the moon’s icy crust — far deeper than humans have ever dug on Earth.

From Los Angeles Times

Though the ground around hydrothermal areas may appear solid, it is often fragile with scalding water lurking just below the surface.

From Los Angeles Times

The experiment replicates the reaction between seawater and the stuff that comes up through hydrothermal vents — an energy source for life on Earth, and a possible mechanism by which organisms first developed here.

From Los Angeles Times

The survey said hydrothermal explosions can pose significant local hazards and damage or destroy thermal features.

From BBC