Volcanic action

Abstract

Dana discusses volcanic action in general, with particular reference to Kilauea. He believes Kilauea's volcanic gases to be largely water vapor, in part based on the lack of effect of gases on vegetation. The water is partly juvenile and partly recycled. The fundamental forces important to volcanism are slow ascension of lava; the elastic force of vapor escaping as bubbles, which causes fountaining; the release of subterranean vapors in confined spaces, which leads to uplift of the caldera floor; intrusion of lava into open spaces, producing elevation of the sides and bottom of the lake; intrusion of lava into fissures rising far above the open lava lakes; and lateral escape of lava, leading to subsidences and engulfments. Dana concludes by comparing Kilauea with Vesuvius.