Carbon Dioxide Drives Volcanic Eruption

August 16, 2023

A groundbreaking study challenges conventional wisdom by revealing that carbon dioxide (CO2), not water vapor, is the driving force behind the eruption of basaltic volcanoes. Researchers studying magma from Pico do Fogo, a highly active ocean island volcano, detected elevated levels of CO2 originating from the mantle’s depths, suggesting its role in volcanic eruptions. The recent finding can revolutionize our understanding of magma’s origin, flow, eruption triggers, and mitigation strategies.

A separate experiment by Ehime University indicates the presence of ferrous and ferric oxides at greater depths than previously thought, suggesting deeper magma formation. The implications extend beyond volcanic eruptions, affecting Earth’s surface formation, mantle, and core dynamics.

What does the new study propose about the driving force behind volcanic eruptions?

Contrary to common belief, the study suggests that carbon dioxide (CO2) instead of water vapor is responsible for propelling basaltic volcanic eruptions. This challenges the conventional understanding of eruption triggers.

How was the role of carbon dioxide (CO2) in volcanic eruptions discovered?

While studying magma from the active Pico do Fogo volcano, researchers observed unusually high levels of CO2 originating from depths within the mantle. This revelation could change how experts comprehend eruption mechanisms and plan mitigation strategies.

What practical implications can be drawn from this finding?

The discovery helps volcano experts better understand magma’s source, movement, and eruption initiation. This understanding could lead to more effective mitigation planning for potential volcanic events.

What did the Ehime University experiment reveal about magma formation?

The Ehime University experiment identified higher levels of ferrous and ferric oxides in the mantle, indicating that magma is formed at greater depths than previously thought. This finding challenges earlier assumptions about magma’s origin.

How does the study impact our understanding of Earth’s surface formation?

The presence of higher ferric oxide levels in the magma ocean compared to the upper mantle suggests a deeper oxidation process. This has implications not only for volcanic eruptions but also for the formation of Earth’s crust, mantle, and core.

What key insight does the research provide about the formation of Earth’s surface?

The research suggests that Earth’s surface and its components are influenced by the oxidation process, highlighting the interconnectedness of volcanic activity, mantle composition, and the planet’s overall geology.

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