A multitracer approach for characterizing interactions between shallow groundwater and the hydrothermal system in the Norris Geyser Basin area, Yellowstone National Park

Researchers identified two distinct groundwater systems—shallow, cool water and deep, high-temperature hydrothermal—that mix to form springs with intermediate characteristics in Yellowstone National Park's Norris Geyser Basin. Using a multitracer approach, including stable isotopes, major/minor element chemistry, chlorofluorocarbons, and tritium, the study constrained flow paths and refined conceptual models of groundwater circulation in this complex hydrothermal system. This method provides new insights into the interactions between shallow and deep groundwater, enhancing understanding of geothermal processes in dynamic environments like Norris Geyser Basin.

Gardner, W. P., Susong, D. D., Solomon, D. K., & Heasler, H. P. (2011). A multitracer approach for characterizing interactions between shallow groundwater and the hydrothermal system in the Norris Geyser Basin area, Yellowstone National Park. Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems, 12(8), n. https://doi.org/10.1029/2010gc003353