Why do geysers erupt regularly?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: Pressure buildup in chambers
Tidal forces from moon — Wrong. Tides affect oceans, not underground water systems. Geysers erupt from heat and pressure cycles, not lunar gravity.
Pressure buildup in chambers ✓ — Correct! Geysers form where underground water meets hot volcanic rocks. Water heats above boiling point but stays liquid under pressure in narrow chambers. When enough heat builds up, water flashes to steam, erupts violently, then the cycle repeats! Old Faithful erupts every 60-90 minutes—timing depends on chamber refill rate.
Volcano preparing to erupt — Wrong. Geysers indicate geothermal activity but aren't signs of imminent eruptions. They're separate phenomena with different timescales and mechanisms.
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