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Magmatic vapor source for sulfur dioxide released during volcanic eruptions: Evidence from Mount Pinatubo

January 1, 1994

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) released by the explosive eruption of Mount Pinatubo on 15 June 1991 had an impact on climate and stratospheric ozone. The total mass of SO2 released was much greater than the amount dissolved in the magma before the eruption, and thus an additional source for the excess SO2 is required. Infrared spectroscopic analyses of dissolved water and carbon dioxide in glass inclusions from quartz phenocrysts demonstrate that before eruption the magma contained a separate, SO2-bearing vapor phase. Data for gas emissions from other volcanoes in subduction-related arcs suggest that preeruptive magmatic vapor is a major source of the SO2 that is released during many volcanic eruptions.

Publication Year 1994
Title Magmatic vapor source for sulfur dioxide released during volcanic eruptions: Evidence from Mount Pinatubo
DOI 10.1126/science.265.5171.497
Authors P.J. Wallace, T.M. Gerlach
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Science
Index ID 70017627
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Volcano Hazards Program