Geothermal Gradient Calculator
Calculate temperature at depth, heat flow, and geothermal power suitability for any location.
Input Parameters
Tdepth = Tsurface + gradient × depth / 1000 | Q = k × (gradient / 1000)
Results
Temperature at Depth
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Heat Flow
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Temp (°F)
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Geothermal Power Suitability
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Binary Cycle
> 150°C
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Flash Steam
> 200°C
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Dry Steam
> 250°C
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Temperature vs. Depth Profile
How this was calculated
Temperature: T = T_surface + gradient × depth/1000. Linear model assumes constant gradient.
Heat flow: Q = k × dT/dz where dT/dz is the gradient in K/m. Units: W/m² (or mW/m²).
Assumptions: Steady-state conduction. No convection or fluid flow. Homogeneous rock properties. Actual subsurface temperatures can vary due to lithology, fluid circulation, and radiogenic heat production.
Need help with geothermal resource assessment, subsurface modeling, or AI-driven analytics for energy projects?
Book a free strategy call →Understanding the Geothermal Gradient
The geothermal gradient describes the rate of temperature increase with depth below the Earth's surface. On average, temperature rises about 25-30 °C per kilometer in continental crust, though this varies significantly by tectonic setting. Volcanic regions can exceed 80 °C/km while stable continental shields may be as low as 15 °C/km.
Geothermal energy harnesses this natural heat. Binary cycle plants operate at temperatures above 150°C, flash steam plants require above 200°C, and dry steam plants need above 250°C. Understanding the local gradient helps determine drilling depth and economic viability.
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