Hot Spring Near Hveragerdi, Iceland

October 10, 2012

IcelandhotspringIMG_9204

Photographer
: Jean-Luc Dauvergne
Summary Authors: Jean-Luc Dauvergne; Jim Foster

The photo above showing a tomato-colored hot spring was taken near the town of Hveragerdi in southwestern Iceland. Its coloration is due to heat-tolerant bacteria and to algae known as thermophiles. In essence, each color is related to a specific temperature range -- the redder colors correspond to warmer water. This spring and the steam emanating from fumaroles in the background are associated with the Hengill volcano. Geothermal energy, resulting from the widespread volcanic activity on Iceland, is mined throughout this fiery island. In fact, it's used to heat approximately 85 percent of the island's homes. Photo taken on September 22, 2012.

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