GE 5180 Exercise Using numerical models of eruptive activity—an example

Problem: How can numerical models be used to better understand eruptive phenomena?

Background information:

Francis & Oppenheimer --Chapter 7

Article by L Mastin

Required Materials: PC with access to Plumeria, such as ones in 211 or 709 Dow. Or you can download this program from Mastin’s website

Activities:

1. Consider the inputs and variables in the Plumeria model. Pick starting conditions that resemble a particular eruptive type within the range of the model’s applicability.
2. Use the program to explore the effect of one or more variables on the character of the eruption by: 1. Stating a coherent objective, eg how does ash temperature relate to column height for a typical “dry” eruption, and 2. Making careful changes in input parameters to investigate the effects. When you do this, read section A2 in the appendix A of Mastin.

3. Analyze your results and make some conclusions. Suggest further work to explore the next questions which emerge.

Hints and other things to consider:

This work should help you to understand something about eruption dynamics by applying the theoretical mathematics in a way linked to observational results.

How could this model be used to illuminate real observations using video or satellite data?

How could the temperature of the magmatic fluid be less than the solidus temperature of volcanic magma?

Anticipated outcomes: As a result of this activity, which might require a few hours of effort, you may be able to:

Learn how numerical models are used in volcanology.

Learn something about volcanic plume dynamics.

Learn how observational data on eruptions from video and satellite can lead to better understanding of the eruption.