Volcanic Clouds Overview

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Background

MODIS image of the October 2002 Etna eruption.

Volcanic Clouds Overview
Scientists are interested in volcanic clouds because of the close relationship of the atmosphere and volcanoes. In the current prevailing earth models, we think that earth's atmosphere and its ocean are the products of eons of degassing through volcanism. Yet, although this may be true, degassing of the deep earth introduces many substances that are rare in the hydrosphere. Explosive eruptions can cause grave hazards to life and health of living creatures. It is thus important to understand the process of volcano/atmosphere interactions both from the perspective of science and from the perspective of a living creature on earth.

What are volcanic clouds?
Science issues -- Why are a wide range of scientists interested in volcanoes?

Volcanoes are sources of natural pollution.

Climate can be affected by volcanic eruptions and gases.

Volcanoes provide insight into the inner earth.

Volcanoes may have controlled human genetic evolution.

Volcanic eruptions can be used as a tool to study the atmosphere

· Public issues -- why everyone should be aware of volcanic clouds

Aircraft hazards are a prime public safety issue for volcanic clouds.

Volcanoes emit gases that affect the health of humans and animals.

Ashfall forecasts are important to public health as well.

http://www.geo.mtu.edu/volcanoes/vc_web/overview/index.html -- Revised: 26 DECEMBER 2002