This site describes the variability of eruption types, from quiescent lava emissions to extremely violent and explosive events. Eruption variability is largely related to magma composition and the amount of water present. Types of eruptions discussed include fissure and Hawaiian eruptions, which are characterized by fire fountains and lava lakes, strombolian eruptions as exemplified by Paricutin in Mexico, and eruptions that are often associated with growing lava domes, such as that at Mt. Pelee in 1902, and with the generation of pyroclastic flows from dome collapse, known as vulcanian eruptions. Numerous active links throughout the site lead to more examples and detailed explanations.

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This resource is referenced by 'How Volcanoes Work'

Author: Dr Victor E. Camp
Department of Geological Science, San Diego State University