White Smoker
Volcano Learning zone > Volcano Glossary
White smokers are hydrothrmal vents associated with mid-ocean ridges. Sea water percolates through cracks in the ocean floor,heated by magma then returns to the surface. Similar to black smokers in their origin accept they consist of lighter coloured elements such as barium , calcium and silicon. Tall chimneys of minerals an form around the vent and grow at a rate of 9m /year ( they collapse too). The water temperature is cooler than black smokers.