In this video, we will show a visual representation of so-called ‘black smoker’ hydrothermal vent. In nature, these vents produce plumes of hydrogen sulfide gas through the water that can be used as a source of energy by microfauna. The black colour comes from iron sulfide within the mixture.

In this video (demonstration), this is being represented by manganese dioxide, acting as a catalyst for the decomposition of a 12% hydrogen peroxide solution. This has been used as an analogue in the lab, as hydrogen sulfide is toxic to animals, including humans.

On Jupiter’s moon Enceladus, hot water from hydrothermal vents can travel all the way from the seafloor to Enceladus’ surface and be ejected by the plumes thousands of kilometres into space.

The video supports the Europlanet Icy Moons Collection of Educational Resources - 3. Enceladus. https://www.europlanet-society.org/outreach/educational-resources/icy-moons-collection-3-enceladus/

Europlanet 2024 RI has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 871149.