Scientists discover ‘spectacular’ undersea hydrothermal vents
Deep in the ocean, hydrothermal vents can tower up to 200 feet above the seafloor, belching out scalding water warmed by hot magma from underwater volcanoes. A recent expedition to locate more of these vents yielded a new find: a group of “black smoker” vents emitting water of 645 degrees Fahrenheit along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge near Puerto Rico. PMEL Earth Ocean Interations Program's research cruise is highlighted.
