Merapi, Indonesia Flashcards
What type of volcano is Merapi?
Strato-volcano
A strato-volcano is characterized by a steep profile and is composed of multiple layers of hardened lava, tephra, and ash.
What is the altitude of Merapi?
Nearly 3000 m
This altitude makes Merapi one of the prominent features in the region.
When did Merapi experience significant eruptions?
1994, 1997, 2001, 2006, and 2010
These years mark notable eruption events that impacted the surrounding areas.
What was the volcanic explosivity index (VEl) of the 2010 eruption?
VEl 4
The VEl scale measures the explosiveness of volcanic eruptions, with higher numbers indicating more powerful eruptions.
How far did pyroclastic flows extend during the 2010 eruption?
4 km north, 11.5 km west, 7 km east, and 15 km south
Pyroclastic flows are fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter that can cause significant destruction.
What triggered lahars during the 2010 Merapi eruption?
The eruption occurred at the start of the rainy season
Lahars are destructive mudflows that can occur when volcanic ash and debris mix with rainwater.
What impact did the ash falls have on Yogyakarta airport?
Forced closure for over a fortnight
Ash fall can severely disrupt air travel due to safety concerns regarding visibility and engine performance.
How many people were killed by the 2010 Merapi eruption?
367 people
The eruption had a devastating human toll, highlighting the risks associated with living near active volcanoes.
Approximately how many people became refugees due to the Merapi eruption?
Approximately 410,000
The displacement of large populations is a common consequence of volcanic eruptions.
What types of damage did the Merapi eruption cause to infrastructure?
Destroyed crops and infrastructure such as buildings, power lines, and bridges
The destruction of infrastructure can severely impact the local economy and recovery efforts.
How much material was involved in ash fall and pyroclastic flows during the 2010 eruption?
130 million m³
The volume of material ejected during an eruption is a critical factor in assessing its impact.
True or False: Lava bombs were thrown 4 km from the summit in all directions during the 2010 eruption.
True
Lava bombs are large fragments of molten rock that are ejected during an eruption.
