The Blue Lagoon of Buxton has long been a picturesque spot in Derbyshire, famous for its strikingly bright blue water that almost appears otherworldly. This vibrant hue, however, is not a natural phenomenon but the result of chemical reactions. The dazzling color of the lagoon arises from the limestone rocks surrounding it, which were part of a former quarry. When limestone, a rock rich in calcium carbonate, comes into contact with water, it can undergo a chemical process where it leaches calcite into the water.
Calcite, or calcium carbonate, is naturally white but the blue coloration appears due to the scattering of light by the suspended particles in the water. This phenomenon is known as Raleigh scattering, where shorter light wavelengths (blue and violet) are dispersed more strongly than longer wavelengths (red). However, the human eye is more sensitive to blue, and thus the water appears distinctly turquoise blue.
Beyond its allure, the blue lagoon harbors an unsettling secret. It's not just calcite that turns the water blue, but also various chemicals pollutants that have seeped in over the years, primarily from mining operations. Old limestone quarries are notorious for having waters that are alkaline with a high pH level. This high alkalinity, while contributing to its vivid color, is dangerous to both aquatic life and humans.
Public health officials have often issued warnings about swimming in the waters of the Blue Lagoon due to the presence of harmful substances including ammonia, which can cause severe skin irritation upon contact. Furthermore, the quarry's waters hide dangers such as submerged cars, garbage, and other hazards that make it unsafe for recreation.
While the blue color of Buxton's lagoon is indeed captivating, it is backed by a tale of environmental impact illustrating the interplay between natural geological processes and human industrial activity. Visitors are attracted by its unique appearance, but they must remain cautious of the underlying health risks associated with the contaminated waters. Therefore, while the Blue Lagoon continues to be an intriguing site for photographers and curious onlookers, it serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of industrial negligence and the importance of environmental safeguarding.