The momentum of a volcano's high-velocity ejecta is mostly due to expanding gas.
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 93/100
Volcanological studies confirm that the high-velocity ejection and momentum of explosive volcanic materials are primarily driven by the rapid exsolution and expansion of magmatic gases.
Evidence for · 5
Ascent and eruption of basaltic magma on the Earth and Moon
1981 · cited by 729
Demonstrates that magma/gas dispersion velocity and fountain height are driven by gas content and expansion.
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More for · 4
The control of volcanic column heights by eruption energetics and dynamics
1978 · cited by 437
Shows that gas exit velocity and gas content are fundamental drivers of eruption column height and energetics.
The size distribution of pyroclasts and the fragmentation sequence in explosive volcanic eruptions
1998 · cited by 172
Explains that explosive eruptions rely on continuous gas phases generated by bubble exsolution and fragmentation.
A numerical program for steady-state flow of magma-gas mixtures through vertical eruptive conduits
2000 · cited by 86
Models how gas exsolution, bubble growth, and rapid decompression drive magma acceleration and conduit flow.
Conduit flow and fragmentation
1998 · cited by 57
Notes that rapid gas expansion and vesiculation just prior to fragmentation are key to driving explosive eruptions.