________ tend to increase the explosive potential of a magma body beneath a volcano.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High viscosity magma has a high resistance to flow, making it more difficult for dissolved gases to escape. This can lead to the buildup of pressure within the magma body, increasing its explosive potential. On the other hand, low viscosity magma flows more easily, allowing gases to escape more readily, reducing the likelihood of explosive eruptions. Low silica content magma also tends to have lower viscosity, but this factor alone is not enough to increase explosive potential. Therefore, high viscosity magma with a high dissolved gas content is the best choice for increasing explosive potential.

________ Tend to Increase the Explosive Potential of a Magma