Pyroclastic shield

Today, Pyroclastic shield is a topic that has gained great relevance in various areas of society. Since its emergence, Pyroclastic shield has caught the attention of many people due to its importance today. Over time, Pyroclastic shield has been the subject of debate, research and analysis, which has generated growing interest in its study. In this article, we will explore different aspects related to Pyroclastic shield, with the aim of offering a comprehensive view on this topic that is so relevant today. From its origins to its current implications, we will analyze all the relevant aspects to understand the importance of Pyroclastic shield in today's society.

Emi Koussi seen from International Space Station

In volcanology, a pyroclastic shield or ignimbrite shield is an uncommon type of shield volcano. Unlike most shield volcanoes, pyroclastic shields are formed mostly of pyroclastic and highly explosive eruptions rather than relatively fluid basaltic lava issuing from vents or fissures on the surface of the volcano. They typically display low-angle flank slopes and often have a central caldera caused by large eruptions. Lava is commonly extruded after explosive activity has ended. The paucity of associated Plinian fall deposits indicates that pyroclastic shields are characterized by low Plinian columns.

Pyroclastic shields are commonly known to form in the Central Andes of South America, as well as in Melanesia (the island of Bougainville alone has two). There are also pyroclastic shields in Africa, such as Emi Koussi in Chad.

Examples

See also

  • Stratovolcano – Type of conical volcano composed of layers of lava and tephra
  • Pyroclastic fall – Deposit of material ejected from a volcanic eruption

Categories:

References

  1. ^ "Global Volcanism Program | Educational Resources | Types and Processes Gallery | Shield Volcanoes". Volcano.si.edu. Archived from the original on 2013-05-07.

External links