GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -In general, eruptions can be categorized as either effusive or explosive. Effusive eruptions involve the outpouring of basaltic magma that is relatively low in viscosity and in gas content. Explosive eruptions generally involve magma that is more viscous and has a higher gas content.

Detailed explanation-2: -Geologists classify volcanic eruptions as quiet or explosive. The properties of magma determine how a volcano erupts. Whether an eruption is quiet or explosive depends on the magma’s silica content and whether the magma is thin and runny or thick and sticky.

Detailed explanation-3: -Volcanic eruptions can be explosive, sending ash, gas and lava high up into the atmosphere, or the magma can form lava flows, known as effusive eruptions. Whether an eruption is explosive or effusive largely depends upon the amount of gas in the magma.

Detailed explanation-4: -Kilauea in Hawaii erupts quietly, producing low-viscosity lava flows. High-silica magma produces explosive eruptions. Thick magma can clog a volcanic pipe, causing enormous pressure to build up. When the volcano finally explodes, lava and hot gases are hurled outward.