Exploring how oceanic hydrothermal systems influence seawater chemistry

The chemical exchange between seawater and the underlying ocean crust occurs at temperatures ranging from about 2°C on the seafloor to more than 500°C deep in the crust. These hydrothermal reactions strongly influence the chemical composition of seawater and, in turn, seawater chemistry impacts hydrothermal exchange; these feedbacks play a crucial role in the Earth system.

Hydrothermal Circulation an…