Volcanology
A.Y. 2019/2020
Learning objectives
The main aim of the course is to learn the principles of physical volcanology that control and drive eruptive and intereruptive phenomena. In addition we discuss the main criteria for reconstructing the evolution of a volcanic area and for assessing its hazard
Expected learning outcomes
Recognition of the main volcanic deposits, their study and volcanic processes. Role of tectonics in the evolution of volcanoes. Field work in volcanic areas
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Plate tectonics and volcanism. Genesis and composition of magmas: decompression melting and the
mantle adiabat; melting by compositional variation; by temperature increase. Physico-chemical properties of magmas and principles of rheology. Volatile species in magmas. Magma chambers. Plumbing systems and the evolution of magmas at shallow depth. Eruptions: timescales, eruption rates, classification schemes. Magnitudo and energy release. Magmatic fragmentation. Effusive eruptions and the deposits of effusive volcanism: lavas and lava flows, lava fountains, domes, subglacial and subaqueous lavas, seamounts. Flood basalts. Strombolian eruptions and an introduction to their products. Explosive volcanism and an introduction to their products: fall deposits, pyroclastic flows, surges. Phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions. Mapping of volcanic areas. Volcanic hazard. Volcanic and tectonic structures: their relations and influences on the volcanic evolution
mantle adiabat; melting by compositional variation; by temperature increase. Physico-chemical properties of magmas and principles of rheology. Volatile species in magmas. Magma chambers. Plumbing systems and the evolution of magmas at shallow depth. Eruptions: timescales, eruption rates, classification schemes. Magnitudo and energy release. Magmatic fragmentation. Effusive eruptions and the deposits of effusive volcanism: lavas and lava flows, lava fountains, domes, subglacial and subaqueous lavas, seamounts. Flood basalts. Strombolian eruptions and an introduction to their products. Explosive volcanism and an introduction to their products: fall deposits, pyroclastic flows, surges. Phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions. Mapping of volcanic areas. Volcanic hazard. Volcanic and tectonic structures: their relations and influences on the volcanic evolution
Prerequisites for admission
No prerequisites
Teaching methods
Lectures with schemes, diagrams, numerous images and presentation of case studies, some exercises, mandatory 3-day field work usually on Mt. Etna in the period between the second half of June and the end of July.
Teaching Resources
K. Németh, & U. Martin, Practical Volcanology (2007).
Scientific papers and PDF presentations of the lectures on the Ariel website
Scientific papers and PDF presentations of the lectures on the Ariel website
Assessment methods and Criteria
Oral exam based on the field data collected during field work on Etna (3 days) and some questions on the lectures. Mark in thirtieth
GEO/08 - GEOCHEMISTRY AND VOLCANOLOGY - University credits: 6
Field activity: 12 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Groppelli Gianluca
Shifts:
-
Professor:
Groppelli Gianluca