The length of time that a volcanic eruption impacts the climate is largely determined by:
A)the amount of water evaporated.
B)how much ash is emitted.
C)whether the ash or gas reaches the stratosphere.
D)how much gas is emitted.
E)the explosive force of the eruption.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important factor determining the length of time a volcanic eruption impacts the climate is whether the ash or gas reaches the stratosphere. This is because the stratosphere is high enough to allow the particles to remain suspended in the atmosphere longer, allowing them to circulate around the globe and impact the climate for months or even years after the eruption. Other factors such as the amount of water evaporated, how much ash is emitted, how much gas is emitted, and the explosive force of the eruption can also influence the impact of volcanic eruptions on the climate, but they are not as important as whether the ash or gas reaches the stratosphere.

The Length of Time That a Volcanic Eruption Impacts the Climate