Volcanology
A.Y. 2022/2023
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to learn the mechanisms that control the evolution of a volcanic system, from its roots to the surface and the impact of volcanic eruptions on the population, ecosystems and climate.
Expected learning outcomes
Learn about volcanic processes, recognize the volcanic deposits in the field, interpret hazard and risk maps.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Introduction: history of volcanology and key concepts. 2) The magmatic system: magma genesis and evolution. 3) Magma: chemical and physical properties of magmas and magmatic gases. 4) Volcanic eruptions: eruptive styles, characteristics, duration and "size" of eruptions. 5) Volcanic landforms: anatomy of a volcano and types of volcanic edifices. 6) Explosive eruptions (1): controlling factors of magmatic explosions. 7) Explosive eruptions (2): controlling factors of idromagmatic eruptions. 8) Eruptive columns: anatomy and controlling factors of eruptive columns. 9) Fallout deposits: characteristics and parameters. 10) Pyroclastic density currents: genesis, structure and characteristics of PDCs. 11) PDC deposits: mechanisms of transport and deposition, characteristics of the deposits. 12) Deposits of effusive eruptions (1): classification of lavas, mafic lavas. 13) Deposits of effusive eruptions (2): silicic lavas, lava domes. 14) Submarine eruptions and deposits: eruptive mechanisms, deposits, evolution of volcanic islands. 15) Lahars and their deposits: types of lahars and trigger mechanisms, characteristics of deposits. 16) Volcanic collapses: types and mechanisms of collapse, associated deposits. 17) Hazard and risk (1): eruptive columns and PDCs hazard, hazard maps. 18) Hazard and risk (2): lavas, lahars and collapsed hazard, hazard and risk maps. 19) Monitoring: techniques and instruments. 20) Seminar by an expert
Prerequisites for admission
basic geology, petrography and geochemistry
Teaching methods
Type of exam: Written and Oral; Attendance mode: Strongly recommended; Delivery method: in person and on Microsoft Teams
Teaching Resources
Learning material (pdf files) will be provided by lecturer on Microsoft Teams. Supplementary reading material (i.e., books and papers) will be suggested at the end of each class.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam will consist of an oral and a written part (final grade is an average of the two). We will have a fieldtrip in a volcanic area at the end of the course.
GEO/08 - GEOCHEMISTRY AND VOLCANOLOGY - University credits: 6
Field activity: 12 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Forni Francesca
Professor(s)
Reception:
to be scheduled via email