Volcano Types and Eruptions

What type of volcanic eruption is characterized by low viscosity and easy separation of volatiles from lava?

Which type of volcano is one that has not erupted in a long period but still has the potential to erupt again?

What is the term for the muddy volcanic debris that can form on the slopes of a volcano after heavy rain interacts with pyroclastic materials?

What significant event occurred during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 BC?

What natural phenomenon can Plinian eruptions create, affecting the atmosphere around the volcano?

Volcano Types

Volcanoes are classified as active, dormant, or extinct.

Volcanic Eruptions

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 BC destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Pliny the Elder died from the gases released during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
The first major explosion of Mount Pinatubo occurred on June 15, 1991.

Plinian Eruptions

Plinian eruptions are characterized by the release of massive amounts of ash and gas.
Mount Redoubt in Alaska erupted in 1989, producing a Plinian eruption.
Plinian eruptions can create their own weather, such as rain of ash.

Lahars

Volcanic debris, such as ash and mud, can become unstable on the slopes of volcanoes.
This unstable material can flow downhill as a lahar.

Types of Eruptions

Low-viscosity eruptions are peaceful and release volatiles easily.
An example is the volcano in Surtsey, Iceland.
High-viscosity eruptions are explosive and trap volatiles within the lava.
An example is the volcano in Michoacan, Mexico.

Canada's Dormant Volcanoes

There is increased seismic activity around the Nazko Cone in Canada.
Mount Meager volcano in Canada erupted at the same magnitude as Mount St. Helens approximately 2,350 years ago.

Explore the fascinating world of volcanoes through this quiz, focusing on their classifications, types of eruptions, and notable historical events. Learn about active, dormant, and extinct volcanoes, as well as the impacts of explosive eruptions like those of Mount Vesuvius and Mount Pinatubo.