Study links hot spring water to Pacific Plate subduction

AI digestMimile.ai EditorialJuly 7, 2026 at 05:09 PM

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Researchers at the University of Tsukuba used numerical simulations and isotopic data to show that magmatic water in hot springs and volcanic gases around Kussharo Caldera, Hokkaido, originates from the subducting Pacific Plate. The plate descends from the Kuril Trench to a depth of 125 kilometers. The findings were published in the Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research.

Isotopic Signatures

The study analyzed isotopic compositions of water and gases from hot springs near Kussharo Caldera. Researchers identified distinct signatures matching those of the subducting Pacific Plate. The plate releases water as it descends, which then rises through the mantle and emerges in volcanic systems.

Numerical Simulations

Numerical models simulated the path of water from the plate at 125 km depth to the surface. The simulations matched observed isotopic data, confirming the deep origin. This provides a direct link between subduction processes and surface hydrothermal activity.

What's Next

Future research may apply similar methods to other volcanic regions to trace deep water sources. It remains unclear how much magmatic water contributes to hot springs globally.

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Study links hot spring water to Pacific Plate subduction

phys.org

Phys.org

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Study links hot spring water to Pacific Plate subduction

Isotopic Signatures

Numerical Simulations

What's Next

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