Mauna Loa

Definition

Mauna Loa is one of the five volcanoes that make up the Big Island of Hawaii and is recognized as the largest active volcano on Earth by volume and area. Its significance lies not only in its size but also in its geological activity and its role in shaping the Hawaiian landscape, making it a key feature in the study of Hawaiian geography and geology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mauna Loa covers approximately 51% of the Big Island and rises about 13,681 feet above sea level, but its true height from its base on the ocean floor is over 30,000 feet.
2. The volcano has erupted 33 times since its first well-documented eruption in 1843, with the most recent eruption occurring in November 2022.
3. Mauna Loa's eruptions are typically characterized by relatively gentle lava flows rather than explosive eruptions, making it a different type of threat compared to more explosive volcanoes.
4. The volcano plays a crucial role in the study of climate change, as Mauna Loa Observatory is a key location for monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
5. The surrounding ecosystem is diverse, with unique flora and fauna that have adapted to the volcanic landscape, showcasing the impact of Mauna Loa on local biodiversity.

Review Questions

• How does Mauna Loa's geological characteristics distinguish it from other types of volcanoes?
  • Mauna Loa is classified as a shield volcano, which means it has broad, gently sloping sides formed primarily from low-viscosity basalt lava. This allows lava to flow over large areas rather than erupt explosively, which is typical of stratovolcanoes. Understanding these geological characteristics is essential for assessing Mauna Loa's behavior during eruptions and its impact on the surrounding environment.
• What implications does Mauna Loa's activity have for understanding volcanic hazards in Hawaii?
  • The activity of Mauna Loa provides vital insights into volcanic hazards in Hawaii because its eruptions are generally non-explosive but can still pose significant risks due to fast-moving lava flows. By studying its eruption patterns and predicting future activity, scientists can better prepare communities for potential hazards. This knowledge helps mitigate risks associated with living near active volcanoes.
• Evaluate the role of Mauna Loa in studying climate change and how its observations contribute to global scientific efforts.
  • Mauna Loa serves as a critical site for climate change research due to the Mauna Loa Observatory, which has been monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide since 1958. The data collected here has become fundamental in understanding the rising levels of greenhouse gases and their effects on global warming. The continuous monitoring efforts provide scientists with important trends and insights that inform climate policies and global efforts to combat climate change.

Related terms

Shield Volcano: A type of volcano characterized by broad, gently sloping sides and primarily composed of low-viscosity basalt lava, which allows for widespread lava flows.

Kilauea: Another active shield volcano located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its frequent eruptions and lava flows that have significantly altered the landscape.

Hot Spot: A volcanic region thought to be fed by underlying mantle that is anomalously hot, responsible for creating islands like those in Hawaii as tectonic plates move over it.