Which of the following best describes the common pattern of a major eruption sequence?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The common pattern of a major eruption sequence involves a Vulcanian precursor (explosive eruptions with moderate to short-lived ash columns), a Plinian main event (explosive eruptions with high eruption columns that can last for days to weeks), and a lava dome conclusion (effusive eruption with the slow extrusion of viscous lava). This sequence is commonly observed in stratovolcanoes like Mount St. Helens and Mount Pinatubo. Option A is incorrect because Hawaiian eruptions are generally gentle effusive eruptions that do not have explosive precursors. Option C is incorrect because Strombolian eruptions are characterized by frequent small explosive bursts rather than a single large Plinian event. Option D is incorrect because "Ultra-Plinian" is not a widely recognized term in volcanology, and there is no clear evidence of a consistent pattern involving a Strombolian main event and a magma plug conclusion.

Which of the Following Best Describes the Common Pattern of a Major