Volcanic explosivity refers to the magnitude and intensity of a volcanic eruption, characterized by the volume of erupted material, eruption column height, and duration. It is quantified using the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI), which ranges from 0 for non-explosive eruptions to 8 for mega-colossal eruptions, providing a standardized measure for comparing volcanic events.

Volcanic Explosivity

Magnitude and intensity of a volcanic eruption

Volume of erupted material

Eruption column height is a critical measure in volcanology, indicating the intensity and potential impact of a volcanic eruption. It influences the distribution of volcanic ash and gases in the atmosphere, affecting air travel, climate, and health.

Eruption Column Height

Duration of a volcanic eruption

The Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) is a logarithmic scale that measures the explosiveness of volcanic eruptions, ranging from 0 (non-explosive) to 8 (mega-colossal). It considers factors like volume of erupted tephra, eruption cloud height, and qualitative observations to categorize and compare eruptions globally.

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