Identifying types of volcanoes
Problem
How could you interpret data to show the relationship between the
properties of magma and the properties of volcanoes?
Form A Hypothesis:
As a pair, discuss the factors that determine different volcanic forms and different
volcanic eruptions. Then form a hypothesis about the relationship between magma
type and volcano type.
Objectives:
Infer which properties of magma are related to volcanic eruption and volcanic
forms.
Classify different types of volcanoes according to magma content.
Recognize the effect magma content has on eruptive force and volcanic form.
Materials:
Paper, pencil
Plan the Experiment:
1. As a pair, agree upon a way to test your hypothesis. Write down what you will do
at each step of your test.
2, Examine the chart of selected volcanoes below. Then make a list of the properties
of magma that you will use to classify the volcanoes according to form, eruptive
force, and ability of magma to flow.
3. With your partner, design a way to summarize your data in your journal.
Check the Plan:
Discuss and decide upon the following points and write them down.
1. Which properties of magma will you use to classify the volcanoes?
(If you’re unsure, examine the chart below again.
2. How many data tables will you construct?
3. How will you identify the volcanoes in each of your tables,
4. Carry out your experiment. RECORD all observations.
Selected Volcanoes
Magma
Volcano and Silica
Location
Content
Water
Vapor
Type of
Volcano
Eruptive
Force
1. Etna,
Italy
2. Tam
Nora,
Indonesia
3. Lassen,
California
4. Mauna
Loa, Hawaii
5. Paricutin,
Mexico
6. Kelut,
Indonesia
7. Helgafel,
Iceland
8. Saint
Helens, WA
9. Laki,
Iceland
10. Kilauea
lki, Hawaii
High
Low
Composite
Moderate
Ability of
Magma to
Flow
Medium
High
High
Cinder
High
Low
High
Low
Composite
Moderate
Low
Low
Low
Shield
Low
High
High
Low
Cinder
Moderate
Medium
High
High
cinder
High
Low
Low
High
Shield
Moderate
Medium
High
High
Composite
High
Medium
Low
Low
Shield
Moderate
Medium
Low
Low
Shield
Low
high
Analyze and Conclude:
1. Which eruptions are the most explosive---eruptions with high silica content
or low silica content?
2. What effect does the silica content and water-vapor content have on its
ability to flow?
3. Infer which of the two variables (silica or water vapor) has the greater effect
on the eruptive force of a volcano.
Summarize: (Individually) 1 ½-2 pages.
Summarize the relationship between volcanic form, the silica content and the water
vapor content of the magma.