A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

At more than 100 m (330 ft) below sea level, the Danakil

Depression is one of the lowest points on Earth’s surface.

This area receives little or no rainfall and the weather is hot

and dry, with temperatures soaring above 50ºC (120ºF).

The scalding green water of the springs inside the

depression contains pure sulfur as well as a toxic sulfur

compound called sulfuric acid. As the water evaporates,

sulfur deposits build up around the edges of the pools, making

beautiful shapes across the vast landscape. Tourists visit

to marvel at the remarkable sights at Danakil, even though

the inhospitable conditions in the area give it the title

of the “cruellest place on Earth”.

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