NS25A-0306 - Using the Self Potential Method to Describe Hydrothermal Systems in Yellowstone National Park
Presentation Information
TitleNS25A-0306 - Using the Self Potential Method to Describe Hydrothermal Systems in Yellowstone National Park
Session Start2022-12-13 14:45:00 CST
Session End2022-12-13 18:15:00 CST
LocationMcCormick Place, Poster Hall, Hall - A
AuthorLauren
Presentation TypeIn Person Poster
AbstractYellowstone National Park (YNP) contains one of the world�s most highly concentrated areas of active geysers and other hydrothermal features (e.g. mud pots, hydrothermal pools). Despite numerous studies focusing on imaging these hydrothermal and meteoric waters, geophysical mapping of the near-surface hydrologic flow via Self-Potential (SP) measurements is rarely attempted. In this study, we present recent SP measurements collected from 2015 through 2021 from Old Faithful (i.e. cone geyser), Spouter Geyser (i.e. fountain geyser) and phase separation pool systems within Norris Geyser Basin (i.e. Two Pools) and Sentinel Meadows. These data are processed, analyzed, and modeled to answer the basic question of how either hydrothermal or meteoric recharge subsurface waters move into and around these systems. SP measurements were acquired using 56 non-polarizing, Ag-AgCl2 electrodes equally spaced along lines on the surface to map electric currents and both positive and negative voltage anomalies. Multiple and/or Time-Lapse SP data were collected in incremental, parallel lines that ran over the source to allow spatial mapping, pseudo 3D gridding and uncertainty analyses. Data were diurnally corrected utilizing two electrode positions within the line. An AGI SuperSting R8� recorded SP data in an �automatic� setting where all positions were sampled within 10 minutes. Both the absolute SP and SP difference curves derived from the raw SP data were modeled using COMSOL Multiphysics� Software to produce a 3D image conceptualizing the groundwater flow system. Forward modeling results observed in the simulated 2D curves match both positive and negative voltage anomalies in and around the geyser and phase separation systems. The Self-Potential method helps constrain groundwater flow and compare the dynamics among similarly labelled and structured systems. Understanding and modeling these hydraulic flow paths provides insight into the subsurface dynamics of these features, compliments near-surface geophysical imaging and provides an opportunity to meaningfully predict potential areas where the hazard of geothermal explosions may occur.