Why does old faithful erupt often

Instrumental data which records geyser eruption times is available at the Geyser Observation and Study Association web site. Long-term meteorological trends can be inferred from seasonal streamflow trends like those in the Madison River.

This study is a cooperative effort involving the U. Geological Survey and the National Park Service. Materials provided by U. Geological Survey. Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Science News. Story Source: Materials provided by U. Visit the Old Faithful Webcam for next eruption time. Old Faithful was named by the first official expedition to Yellowstone, the Washburn Expedition of They were impressed by its size and frequency.

Its maximum height ranges from 90 to feet. It is not the biggest or the most regular geyser in Yellowstone but it is the biggest regular geyser. Furthermore, it has been erupting in nearly the same fashion throughout the recorded history of the park. Through the years, it has become one of the most studied geysers. One result of this close observation is that the Park Rangers are able to predict its eruptions fairly accurately.

This makes Old Faithful geyser one of the easiest geysers in Yellowstone to see. Old Faithful is deceiving. The benches around the geyser are over feet from the geyser but with nothing to judge the distance by, I rarely realize just how big the geyser is until I get further away. Personally, I like the view from Geyser Hill. As with any geyser, watch the wind direction or you may only see steam. Old Faithful plays on the hour every hour This legend dates back to the early history of Yellowstone Park.

Old Faithful has never played every hour on the hour. It is just as likely to play on the hour as it to play 17 minutes after the hour or 23 minutes after the hour or ……. You might see one interval of 60 minutes but it is very unlikely that you will see two in a row.

No geyser, including Old Faithful, plays at set times and intervals. Did you get it? Test your knowledge. Wonder Words gush spew erupt filter wait visit faithful scenery volcanic magma surface spring hydrothermal geological phenomena intermittent pressurized geyser Take the Wonder Word Challenge.

Join the Discussion. Feb 1, Jan 31, That's so cool, Brixley! Glad you have had that experience. Chloe Jan 30, I love reading these and I hope you will do this forever! And remember I will always be here for you!!! Love you!!! Sep 24, Wonderopolis Mar 23, Nolan Mar 11, Hey Wonderopolis! I've been there once, and I saw it erupt, unfortunately we had to drive about 2, miles to see it.

Wonderopolis Mar 16, AjAwesomeness Oct 18, Oct 21, Nate Jan 23, That is really cool! I like how you put in a lot of information about this topic! Wonderopolis Jan 24, We are so glad that you enjoyed this Wonder with us! Olivia D.

Oct 9, I liked the video! It was really cool and exciting! It looked a gigantic flower blooming with many petals many times!

Wonderopolis Oct 10, Olivia MC Sep 1, The video was very neat. When I made it full screen, it felt like I was there and looking out my window. I didn't know that a geyser is called a natural spring. I think it would be cool to see clothes coming from the geyser. Wonderopolis Sep 2, Related Wonders for You to Explore Match its definition: any loyal and steadfast following. Under pressure. Word Match Congratulations! Share results.