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651-4032-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Volcanology

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Olivier Bachmann, Dr. Razvan-Gabriel Popa
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:38:09

Abstract

This course discusses processes occurring from magma generation to eruption, covering topics like magma transport and storage, magma reservoir evolution and architecture, eruption triggering and ascent in conduit, connection between magma reservoir properties and eruption behavior, eruption dynamics, and more. The course also discusses deposits, and prepares you for the volcanology field course.

Objective

The class will provide you with a good understanding of the dynamics of volcanic systems, from source to surface. You'll discover more about how volcanoes work, as well as the connection between geochemistry and volcanic behavior. We'll see together how to interpret the depositional processes operating during volcanic eruptions, and how to anticipate potential hazards related to a given volcanic phenomena.

Content

During the course, we'll cover the following topics: - Types of Volcanoes and Plate Tectonics - Magma Migration and Transport - Volcano Monitoring - Magma Reservoir Nucleation, Growth and Architecture (and death) - Physical Properties of Magmas and Melts - Magmatic and Hydromagmatic Fragmentation - Lava Flows and Rheology - Explosive Eruption Styles - Effusive-Explosive Transitions - Calderas and Supervolcanoes - Eruption Columns - Volcanic Deposits - Geochronology, Rates and Dates in Igneous Systems - Volcanic Hazards and Climatic Impacts - Planetary Volcanism

Resources

Lecture Notes

We'll hand out presentation slides

Literature

A useful textbook is “Fundamentals of Physical Volcanology” by Parfitt and Wilson. We can provide other reading materials as well.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
A series of 4 exercises throughout the course dealing with 1) conduit modelling, 2) Geological mapping, 3) structural analysis and interpretation of volcanic deposits, and 4) a funding proposal for research.Making a poster to describe the volcanic history and specific interests of a volcano chosen by the students

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Volcanology
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (NO E 39)
  • Wed 10:15-12:00 (NO E 39)
28 h semesterly

Offered In