Mount Etna. Flashcards
When did the eruptions on Mt. Etna, we study, take place?
2003 (erupted frequently between 2001-2003).
What type of plate margin has Etna formed on?
Convergent. African plate is subducting under the Eurasian plate.
Why is Mt. Etna an odd volcano?
It is a stratovolcano (composite) on top of a shield volcano. Therefore has both an andesitic and Basaltic magma chambers.
What are the characteristics of Andesitic lava?
Temp. 800 Degrees Celcius. Has very high silica content makes it more viscous.
What are the characteristics of Basaltic lava?
Temp. 1200 Degrees Celcius. Low silica content, therefore, is more ‘runny’.
What lava erupted in 2003?
Basaltic.
Where did the Basaltic lava erupt from?
Fissures on the flanks of the volcano.
What other types of eruption occur on Etna?
Phreatic eruptions (steam eruptions) caused by snowmelt water.
What proportion of Sicilies population lives on the slopes of Mt. Etna?
25%
What major international airport was closed due to the 2003 eruptions?
Fontorossa international airport.
Give an exampe of a holiday resort that was destryoed?
Piano Provenzana
What is the name of the city directly south of Etna?
Catania. population 300,000.
Give two example of buildings saved from lava flows?
Rifugio Sapienza resort and Linguaglossa school.
How were some buildings saved from lava flows?
The building of large earth embankments.
What financial assistance was given to the area?
Tax breaks of over 8 million euros.
