Yellowstone’s supervolcano may be fueled by something unexpected
Researchers have developed a 3D model suggesting that supervolcanoes like Yellowstone are fueled by 'magma mush' systems rather than large, long-lived liquid magma chambers. This new understanding indicates that magma is distributed across extensive regions of partially molten rock within the Earth's lithosphere.
Why it matters
Refining models of volcanic activity is critical for predicting the behavior of supervolcanoes, which have the potential to cause global climate and societal disruption.
Supereruptions are among the most powerful volcanic events on Earth. These massive eruptions release more than 1,000 cubic kilometers of magma, rock, and ash, with the potential to dramatically affect climate, ecosystems, and human societies. Because of their enormous impact, scientists are working to better understand the underground processes that create and sustain these volcanic giants.
The article is a straightforward summary of scientific research findings without political or social framing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in