Asked by Zachary Siegel on May 13, 2024
Verified
What event triggered the main eruption of May 1980?
A) Melting snow caused a huge steam eruption.
B) Magma encountered groundwater and exploded.
C) A landslide removed rocks and released pressure on the magma.
D) All of these.
Steam Eruption
A volcanic event wherein water is heated by magma and vaporizes explosively, releasing steam and volcanic gases into the atmosphere.
Magma
Molten rock beneath the Earth's surface which can form igneous rocks upon cooling.
Groundwater
Water that is stored underground in soil or between rocks, supplying wells and springs, and playing a crucial role in the hydrological cycle.
- Understand the mechanics and triggers of volcanic eruptions.
Verified Answer
BJ
Bryken JensenMay 15, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
The main eruption of Mount St. Helens in May 1980 was triggered by a massive landslide that removed the north face of the mountain. This landslide was the largest in recorded history and it exposed the magma within the volcano to lower pressures, leading to the explosive eruption.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the mechanics and triggers of volcanic eruptions.