Long description

These are two diagrams of a hydrothermal system. One diagram shows a wide view of the system, and the second diagram takes a closer look at the localised site and conditions of ore mineral deposition. The wider diagram shows the magma chamber at the bottom, with heat energy rising upward. The diagram shows the infiltration/migration pathways, the leaching and transport of metals, and deposition of ore materials. The close-up diagram shows hot fluids (275-350 °C) rising along fractures in the sulphide mound. Material rises through the chimneys and is emitted as black 'smoke' out into sea water.