Clepsydra Geyser facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Clepsydra Geyser
Eruption
Location	Yellowstone National Park, Teton County, Wyoming
Coordinates	44°33′15″N 110°48′38″W / 44.5541004°N 110.8104886°W / 44.5541004; -110.8104886
Elevation	7,254 feet (2,211 m)
Type	Cone geyser
Eruption height	45 feet (14 m)
Frequency	Constant
Location at Fountain Paint Pots

Clepsydra Geyser is a cool geyser found in the Lower Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park. This amazing natural feature is located in the United States, specifically in Wyoming.

What is Clepsydra Geyser?

Clepsydra Geyser is a special type of hot spring called a cone geyser. This means it builds up a cone-shaped mound around its opening from minerals in the water. Unlike some geysers that erupt only sometimes, Clepsydra Geyser is almost always active. It shoots water and steam high into the air, reaching heights of about 45 feet (14 meters)!

How Clepsydra Got Its Name

The name Clepsydra might sound a bit tricky! It was given to the geyser in 1878 by a person named T. B. Comstock. He was part of an exploration trip led by Captain Jones. The name comes from an ancient Greek word that means "water clock." This is because, a long time ago, the geyser used to erupt very regularly, almost like a clock ticking!

Clepsydra's Eruptions Over Time

For many years, Clepsydra Geyser was known for its super regular eruptions. It would erupt every three minutes, like clockwork! However, something big happened in 1959. A large shaking of the ground, called the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake, changed things. This earthquake affected many geysers in Yellowstone. After that, Clepsydra Geyser started erupting almost all the time instead of in short, regular bursts. It's still a fantastic sight to see!