Kilauea

Definition

Kilauea is one of the most active shield volcanoes in the world, located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Known for its frequent eruptions and low-viscosity lava flows, Kilauea exemplifies the characteristics of shield volcanoes, which typically have broad, gently sloping sides formed by the eruption of fluid basalt lava. Its activity not only shapes the Hawaiian landscape but also provides insight into volcanic processes and hazards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kilauea has been in a state of continuous eruption since 1983, making it one of the most studied volcanoes in the world.
2. The summit caldera of Kilauea has undergone significant changes due to collapses and explosive eruptions, creating a dynamic landscape.
3. Lava flows from Kilauea have expanded the island's coastline and created new land, illustrating the power of volcanic activity.
4. The volcano is monitored closely by the US Geological Survey to provide early warnings for potential hazards to nearby communities.
5. Kilauea's eruptions are typically non-explosive, characterized by effusive lava flows rather than violent explosions.

Review Questions

• Compare Kilauea's eruption style to that of a stratovolcano and discuss how this influences the surrounding environment.
  • Kilauea's eruption style is predominantly effusive, meaning it produces relatively gentle lava flows rather than explosive eruptions typical of stratovolcanoes like Mount St. Helens. This effusive behavior allows Kilauea to create vast areas of new land through flowing basalt lava, gradually building up its shape as a shield volcano. In contrast, stratovolcanoes can create hazardous ash clouds and pyroclastic flows that pose greater risks to surrounding environments.
• Evaluate how Kilauea's activity impacts local ecosystems and human communities on the Big Island.
  • Kilauea's frequent eruptions significantly affect local ecosystems by creating new habitats through lava flows while also destroying existing ones. The new land formed can lead to increased biodiversity as plants and animals adapt to colonize these fresh surfaces. However, human communities face risks such as property damage and air quality issues due to volcanic gases. Ongoing monitoring helps mitigate these risks and allows for effective evacuation plans when necessary.
• Synthesize information about Kilauea's eruptive history and its contribution to our understanding of shield volcanoes in general.
  • Kilauea's long history of eruptions provides valuable data on the behavior and formation processes of shield volcanoes. By studying its lava flow patterns, gas emissions, and eruption styles, scientists gain insights into how shield volcanoes evolve over time. This information contributes to our broader understanding of volcanic activity globally and assists in improving predictive models for future eruptions, enhancing public safety measures in volcanic regions.

Related terms

Shield Volcano: A type of volcano characterized by its broad, domed shape and gentle slopes, built up by the flow of low-viscosity lava.

Basalt: A type of volcanic rock that is primarily formed from the rapid cooling of low-viscosity lava, commonly associated with shield volcanoes like Kilauea.

Pahoehoe: A type of lava flow that has a smooth, ropy surface, often produced by low-viscosity basaltic lava as seen at Kilauea.