UH-Hilo Geology Professor James L. Anderson demonstrates techniques researchers use for collecting samples of molten lava. If you’re interested in studying geology, come earn your undergraduate degree here at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, where geology goes beyond textbooks. In general, scientists collect samples of molten lava for later analysis in the laboratory, to compare the chemistry from one eruption to the next, which provides clues as to the source of the magma supply below—is it fresh magma from the hot spot, or is it from an existing or evolving magma chamber, or a mixture? Samples of molten lava (2000 degrees F; 1200 C) are quenched in a can of water, and they immediately turn to glass; slower cooling would allow the lava to become rock. Note the scientists are wearing heavy-duty clothing, gloves, and boots for this operation. Some of the “lava sampling” shown here is more of a demonstration of viscosity of lava, especially the last scene, in which hardened crust is brought up on the rock hammer. This would never make an appropriate lab sample, but looks good on camera. Watch for the formation of Pele’s Hair, which is lava stretched out in the wind into such thin strands that it forms volcanic glass; this is prominent at 1:07. Visit the UHH Geology web site for more details on our programs. www.hilo.hawaii.edu
Video Rating: 5 / 5
Why do I wish I could just swim in lava O.o
This is insane
The way it reacts with water has made Lava hotter than I thought it already was. And all of that heat is caused by friction…amazing.
Hell id love to try this sampling method looks like fun, unfortunately ive still got to finish my degree first
It formed volcanic glass when it was quenched in water. Hawaiian basalt does not have quite enough silica in it to form true obsidian.
Did it for obsidian when you cooled it?If not,what did it form?
We have just one pair that melted, from a visiting scientist who forgot his field boots. Upon his arrival in Hawaii, he purchased cheap ones from a discount store; as the soles began to melt near hot lava, he had to move quickly to a cooler spot. Accidents are rare. Volcanologists stand on relatively cool rock when sampling, and wear protective clothes. In this video, the cooler rock which Anderson is standing on has ferns growing on it, indicating its age. Stay safe, my friend.
I imagine you get a lot of melted boots… anyone ever accidentally stepped on a fresh patch?
Yes, but we are interested in quality, not quantity.
awesome
Couldn’t you get more lava if you used a shovel?
Oh thats so hot