In-class assignment: Volcanic eruption types
So far you have learned about the 3 different types of volcanoes. The process that builds these volcanoes
depends on the type of eruptions taking place. Eruption types are dependent on two major factors: the viscosity
of the lava and the amount of gas in the lava. Use the following website to create different volcanoes by
changing the levels of gas and viscosity to create the following six settings. Watch the eruption and document
the following information about the eruptions.
Note: stratovolcano = composite volcano
http://dsc.discovery.com/convergence/pompeii/interactive/interactive.html
Setting
1
Low viscosity 1
Low gas content
2
Low viscosity 1
High gas content
Medium-low
3 viscosity 2
Low Gas content
Medium-low
4 viscosity 2
High Gas content
Medium-high
5 viscosity 3
Low Gas content
Medium-high
viscosity 3
6
High Gas content
Volcano
type
Name and description of eruption
Features of eruption
(point form; be sure to mention important
characteristics)
(include the name and point form
description of the feature)
Effusive eruption- calmest of
eruptions, steady stream of thin lava.
- can move slower than walking pace
Lava flow- lava moves down side
of volcano
Lava tube- hardened channels
carry lava away from volcano
Setting
7
Volcano
type
Name and description of eruption
Features of eruption
(point form; be sure to mention important
characteristics)
(include the name and point form
description of the feature)
High viscosity 4
Low gas content
\
8
High viscosity 4
High gas content
** Be sure to have a good definition for each eruption type and eruption feature.
Answer the following questions:
1. What was the major difference between eruption of setting 1 and 2? What change made this difference?
2. Which combination made the most violent explosion? Describe what happened in this explosion that
made it so violent.
3. Which combination(s) created volcanic eruptions that would be safe to observe?
4. Which factor do you think has the largest impact on explosion type and why?