Center for Northeast Asian Studies Tohoku University Faculty

Goto Akio
Assistant Professor

Physical volcanology, physical properties of magma

Studying the factors that determine characteristics of volcanic eruption and its impact on the surrounding areas by experimental methods

There are many active volcanoes in Japan, Kamchatka, and many other parts of Northeast Asia. The characteristics of volcanic eruptions are greatly influenced by the physical properties of magma, and the scale and frequency of eruptions differ widely from one volcano to another. The factors determining their peculiarities are not well understood. To solve this problem I have been measuring the physical properties of magma and conducting analogue experiments of volcanic eruptions. These studies will clarify the relationship between types of volcanic eruptions and the impact on surrounding areas, thereby contributing to disaster prevention for densely populated areas such as Japan. Experimental data on the physical properties of magma have already been applied to simulations for coming lava flows on Mt. Fuji.

Jet of a phreatic eruption from Konpira-Yama crater at Mt. Usu, Hokkaido

Principal areas of interest
● Measurement of physical properties of magma
● Analog volcanic explosion experiments
● Lava flow simulation

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