How Can One Volcano Change the World?
ESU301  Eruption of Mount Pinatubo
Subduction and melting in the geosphere resulted in a series of violent volcanic eruptions from Mount Pinatubo in June, 1991. In three months of activity, more than 7 cubic kilometers of volcanic rock and ash erupted from Mount Pinatubo. Most of the material fell to Earth’s surface, adding another layer of rock to the volcanic mountain, increasing its elevation and changing topography.

Erupted materials covered vast areas of forested land and clogged streams and rivers with volcanic debris. Huge amounts of ash and gases erupted by the volcano remained suspended in the atmosphere for months, resulting in a measurable decrease in global temperatures. All of Earth's spheres were changed by the influx of materials and energy from the geosphere.

For an exploration of the global-scale interactions between the geosphere and atmosphere initiated by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, you may want to complete investigation ES0906: How Fast Do Gases from Volcanic Eruptions Travel?
 


	

 	

		
			
	

	
	

		 
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