_______ magma causes powerful and explosive volcanic eruptions.
A. Composite
B. Rhyolitic
C. Andesitic
D. Basaltic
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the answer is C
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the different types of magma and their characteristics.
Magma refers to molten rock beneath the Earth's surface, while lava is the term used for magma when it reaches the surface during a volcanic eruption. The composition of magma, which is largely determined by the types and amounts of minerals present, plays a crucial role in determining the nature of a volcanic eruption.
There are four main types of magma: basaltic, andesitic, rhyolitic, and dacitic. Each type has different properties, such as its viscosity (resistance to flow) and gas content, which ultimately influence the eruptive behavior.
Powerful and explosive volcanic eruptions are typically associated with high-viscosity magmas that are rich in silica (called felsic magmas). These types of magmas tend to trap gases more efficiently, causing pressure to build until a violent eruption occurs.
Now, let's analyze the options:
A. Composite (also known as stratovolcanoes) is a type of volcano that can erupt with a variety of magma compositions. While composite volcanoes can produce explosive eruptions, they are not specifically linked to the most powerful and explosive eruptions caused by high-viscosity magmas.
B. Rhyolitic is a felsic magma composition with high viscosity and high gas content. Rhyolitic magmas can indeed cause powerful and explosive volcanic eruptions, as they have the potential to release a significant amount of trapped gases. Therefore, this option could be a potential answer.
C. Andesitic refers to an intermediate magma composition, between felsic and mafic. While andesitic magmas can produce explosive eruptions, they are generally not as explosive as rhyolitic or basaltic magmas.
D. Basaltic refers to a mafic magma composition with low viscosity and low gas content. Basaltic magmas are associated with more effusive, less explosive eruptions, so they are less likely to cause the powerful and explosive eruptions mentioned in the question.
Considering these characteristics, the most suitable answer would be:
B. Rhyolitic magma causes powerful and explosive volcanic eruptions.
It is important to note that volcano behaviors can vary, and there may be exceptions or additional factors involved in specific cases.