Skip to main content
Article
Self-Potential, Soil CO2 Flux, and Temperature on Masaya Volcano, Nicaragua
Geophysical Research Letters
  • J. L. Lewicki, University of South Florida
  • Charles B. Connor, University of South Florida
  • K. St-Armand, Université de Montréal
  • J. Stix, McGill University
  • W. Spinner, University of South Florida
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2003
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1029/2003GL017731
Disciplines
Abstract

We investigate the spatial relationship between self-potential (SP), soil CO2 flux, and temperature and the mechanisms that produce SP anomalies on the flanks of Masaya volcano, Nicaragua. We measured SP, soil CO2 fluxes (× 104 g m−2 d−1), and temperatures (26 to 80°C) within an area surrounding a normal fault, adjacent to Comalito cinder cone (2002–2003). These variables are well spatially correlated. Wavelengths of SP anomalies are ≤100 m, and high horizontal SP gradients flank the region of elevated flux and temperature. Carbon isotopic compositions of soil CO2 (δ13C = −3.3 to −1.1‰) indicate a deep gas origin. Given the presence of a deep water table (100 to 150 m), high gas flow rates, and subsurface temperatures above liquid boiling points, we suggest that rapid fluid disruption is primarily responsible for positive SP anomalies here. Concurrent measurement of SP, soil CO2 flux, and temperature may be a useful tool to monitor intrusive activity.

Rights Information
Default Rights Statement
Citation / Publisher Attribution

Geophysical Research Letters, v. 30, issue 15, art. 1817

Copyright 2003 by the American Geophysical Union.

Citation Information
J. L. Lewicki, Charles B. Connor, K. St-Armand, J. Stix, et al.. "Self-Potential, Soil CO2 Flux, and Temperature on Masaya Volcano, Nicaragua" Geophysical Research Letters Vol. 30 Iss. 15 (2003)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/charles_connor/133/