<P> A geyser ( / ˈɡaɪzər / , also / ˈɡiːzə / ) is a spring characterized by intermittent discharge of water ejected turbulently and accompanied by steam . As a fairly rare phenomenon , the formation of geysers is due to particular hydrogeological conditions that exist only in a few places on Earth . Generally all geyser field sites are located near active volcanic areas , and the geyser effect is due to the proximity of magma . Generally , surface water works its way down to an average depth of around 2,000 metres ( 6,600 ft ) where it contacts hot rocks . The resultant boiling of the pressurized water results in the geyser effect of hot water and steam spraying out of the geyser 's surface vent ( a hydrothermal explosion ) . </P>
<P> A geyser ( / ˈɡaɪzər / , also / ˈɡiːzə / ) is a spring characterized by intermittent discharge of water ejected turbulently and accompanied by steam . As a fairly rare phenomenon , the formation of geysers is due to particular hydrogeological conditions that exist only in a few places on Earth . Generally all geyser field sites are located near active volcanic areas , and the geyser effect is due to the proximity of magma . Generally , surface water works its way down to an average depth of around 2,000 metres ( 6,600 ft ) where it contacts hot rocks . The resultant boiling of the pressurized water results in the geyser effect of hot water and steam spraying out of the geyser 's surface vent ( a hydrothermal explosion ) . </P>
intermittent hot spring that erupts jets of hot water and steam
intermittent hot spring that erupts jets of hot water and steam
geyser
geyser