A simulation modeling approach to hydrothermal plumes and its comparison to analytical models

► We model hydrothermal plumes with 3D simulations which have sub-meter resolution. ► Turbulence parameterization is done separately from plume modeling to avoid biasing. ► The simulations agree with classical models in both calm environment and crossflows. ► A new ration between the level of neutral buoyancy and maximum height is found. ► Turbulence transportation contribute to mixing in the top and down stream of the plume.