HETANEWS.com – One of the mysteries of the Earth that continues to attract the attention of researchers is the phenomenon of eternal fire. Apparently, not only one, this phenomenon of fire that never goes out also exists elsewhere on this planet.
In theory, fire needs three sources to stay alive, namely oxygen, fuel, and heat sources. When these three things run out, then in theory the fire will go out.
But in some places on the planet, the phenomenon in which fires persist remains a mystery. The fire continues to burn, despite the storm and rain.
Here are three phenomena of eternal fire in the world as quoted from Science ABC, Thursday (9/3/2023).
The eternal flame in Azerbaijan
The country of Azerbaijan has earned the nickname ‘Land of Fire’ over the years. Fires can start in various places in this mountainous country.
It is also possible that the country’s symbol displays a red flame in the center.
Even though it is something that is fairly common, there is something interesting about Yanar Dag. Because this Land of Fire is one of the places that keeps the eternal flame phenomenon that never goes out, even it still burns today, including during winter.
The first record of the existence of Yanar Dag was written by Marco Polo in the 13th century when he visited the city of Baku. In his notes, he mentions that the fire continued to burn and formed a wall of fire along the edge of the mountain.
Now, the city of Yanar Dag is a tourist attraction for tourists, and this tourist attraction is protected by the state.
The eternal flame in Australia
Eastern Australia has the components needed to prevent fires from being extinguished quickly, starting from very dry vegetation, lightning and humans, which often cause it themselves.
Nevertheless, among the fires that often occur in the territory of Australia, there is one that is most famous and has even received the title as one of the longest burning fires in the world, namely the existence of a strange phenomenon in which the eternal flame continues to burn without ever being extinguished.
Under a new layer of rock on Mount Wingen, in New South Wales, a fire has been burning for at least the last 6000 years. The place was then popularly known as Burning Mountain.
The exact cause is unknown, but scientists think it may have been caused by lightning striking the layer.
Interestingly, the fire burned hotly at over 1,000 degrees Celsius 30 meters below the surface. Then there’s some sort of vent on the surface that lets the smoke and smell of sulfur escape.
The eternal flames on Mount Wingen could burn for a hundred thousand years or more.
Eternal flame in the Canadian Arctic
The hills that cover Canada’s Arctic coastline are not well known.
But who would have thought, this phenomenon of flames has been burning for approximately 7000-10,000 years and is believed to originate from the bonfires of people who live underground.
Records of the hill were first made by Irish explorer Robert McClure during an expedition. It is said that he brought back a sample of one of the rare minerals found there, but it was so hot it punched a hole in his desk.
These hills are surrounded by Arctic Tundra which is isolated and untouched by human population. The soil is black and covered in deep mud and emits a strong smell of hydrogen sulphide gas.
The air in the region is so toxic that going in without protective gear can take a toll on the body.
The existence of the eternal flame phenomenon is rare, but their presence is a sign that nature will always give surprises that amaze us.
