what contents in magma affects a volcanos explosive?
HOW MUCH FORCE IS NEEDED TO MOVE A 0.1 KG SNOW BALL AT A RATE OF 15m/s/s UPWARD
The contents in magma that affect a volcano's explosiveness are primarily dependent on its composition and gas content. The two key factors that contribute to the explosiveness of a volcano are viscosity and gas content.
1. Composition: The composition of magma refers to the types and amounts of minerals present. Magma can have different compositions, including basaltic, andesitic, and rhyolitic. Generally, more explosive eruptions are associated with magmas that have higher silica content, such as andesitic and rhyolitic magmas. These magmas are more viscous (thick) and tend to trap gas bubbles within the magma.
2. Gas Content: Magma contains dissolved gases, mainly water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. When magma rises towards the surface, the decrease in pressure allows these gases to escape from the magma, forming bubbles. The gas content directly affects the explosiveness of a volcano. As the magma rises, the pressure is reduced, causing the gas bubbles to expand. If the magma is more viscous, it is harder for gas to escape, resulting in a buildup of pressure. Consequently, when the pressure becomes too high, it triggers a violent eruption, releasing the accumulated gas explosively.
To understand the contents in magma, specifically its composition and gas content, scientists use various techniques such as geochemical analysis, studying volcanic gas emissions, and analyzing volcanic rocks to determine the volcano's behavior and explosiveness. By studying past eruptions and monitoring current volcanic activity, scientists can make predictions and assess the potential explosiveness of a volcano.