Zombie volcano in Bolivia reveals its secrets
In the southwest of Bolivia, in the heart of the Andes, there is a powerful stratovulkan of Uturuncu, whose last eruption took place around 250,000. years ago. Although for centuries he was considered expired, the latest scientific research reveals that this seemingly calm colossus has dynamic geological processes inside. Determed the « zombie volcano », Uturuncu became the object of intensive observations of geophysics from around the world who follow his subtle but disturbing signals of activity.
Since the 1990s, scientists have been observing unusual geological phenomena in the Uturuncu volcano area. Thanks to the data from satellites and GPS measurements, it has been found that the central part of the volcanic cone is slowly floating, while the surrounding area slightly drops. This characteristic movement resembles the shape of Sombrero and has been going on continuously for several decades, reaching a pace of up to one centimeter per year.
At the same time, numerous seismic shocks and gas emissions, especially carbon dioxide, were recorded. Although there are no typical signs to the upcoming eruption, such as a rapid increase in magma pressure, experts warn that this quiet activity should not be underestimated. Registered signals testify to the movement of hot liquids and gases in the depths of the earth, which can lead to significant changes in the structure of the earth’s shell.
Technological wealth under the volcano
One of the most surprising aspects of the latest discoveries is the potential economic importance of processes taking place near Uturuncu. Studies have shown the presence of an extensive hydrothermal system in which hot waters and gases penetrate the rocks, creating favorable conditions for the formation of metal deposits. This process can lead to the concentration of valuable elements, such as copper, used in modern technologies.
Scientists from the University of Cornell and other research centers combined data from over 1,700 local earthquakes with structural and chemical analyzes, obtaining a precise map of the interior of the volcano. In its center there is a powerful magma reservoir known as Altiplano-Pune Magma Body (APMB), from which liquids go to the surface, moving the system of crevices and channels.
Until now, it was thought that the rising of the area could be a signal of the upcoming eruption. However, in the case of Uturuncu, it was possible to show that deformations are not caused by the accumulation of fresh magma, but with a slow movement of brine and gases that are embedded at the top of the volcano. This discovery changes the way of interpreting volcanic signals and allows you to assess potential threats more accurately.
« Wulkans Zombie » Global phenomenon under the magnifying glass
Discoveries from Bolivia are part of a wider research project, under which the Matthew Pritchard team uses satellite data to identify the so -called Zombie volcanoes around the world. These are volcanic formations that have not exploded for hundreds of thousands of years, and yet they show signs of underground activity. In Bolivia itself, a dozen or so were identified, which makes the region one of the most interesting volcanological areas of the globe.
Tracking the behavior of volcanoes allows scientists to understand how magm systems function in long time cycles and how they can affect the landscape, ecosystems and the availability of raw materials. This knowledge can also help in early detection of threats before they become a real danger to local communities.
Source: sciencelealert.com, thesun.co.uk, livescience.com
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