Podcast Summary
Discovering a Passion for Volcanology in College: Michelle Coombs' academic interests evolved from geology to volcanology during college, leading to a successful career studying why and how volcanoes erupt.
Michelle Coombs, acting director of the USGS Volcano Science Center, shared her passion for volcanology, which began as a college student when she discovered her love for geology through an outdoor class. Her research has taken her from studying Alaskan volcanoes to underwater flanks of Hawaiian volcanoes in a joint US-Japanese project. She became fascinated with volcanoes during her graduate studies in Alaska and now focuses on understanding why they erupt and how they work by studying the rocks and minerals they produce. Michelle's journey illustrates how one's academic interests can evolve and lead to exciting careers in science.
Discovering Unexpected Wonders: Home Improvements and Active Volcanoes: Explore new products for improved experiences, from Olive and June to Sleep Number and 1-800-Flowers.com. Stay informed about unexpected geological wonders like active volcanoes in Antarctica and Alaska.
There are amazing products and services available that can significantly improve everyday experiences, from home manicures with Olive and June to personalized comfort with Sleep Number smart beds, and effortless gift giving with 1-800-Flowers.com. Another intriguing discovery is the presence of active volcanoes in unexpected places, like Antarctica and Alaska, which challenges common associations and highlights the diverse geological features of our planet. When it comes to dealing with erupting volcanoes, the response depends on their location and eruption patterns. For instance, in Alaska, where three volcanoes are currently erupting, residents and authorities closely monitor their activities to minimize potential risks. Overall, these discoveries showcase the importance of staying informed, embracing new experiences, and appreciating the wonders of our world. To learn more about these topics and take advantage of exclusive offers, visit olivandjune.com, sleepnumber.com, and 1800flowers.com.
Understanding the risks of volcanic eruptions: Volcanic eruptions can pose significant risks to people and infrastructure, including damaging aircraft engines with ash and disrupting flights, as well as causing devastating impacts on nearby communities.
Volcanoes, despite being natural wonders, can pose significant risks to people and infrastructure due to their unique eruption patterns. For instance, Hawaiian volcanoes are known for their lava flows, while Alaskan volcanoes are famous for their explosive eruptions and ash clouds. The latter can be hazardous to aviation, as the ash can damage aircraft engines and disrupt flights. This was highlighted in 1989 when a 747 flew through an ash cloud from Redoubt Volcano in Alaska, causing all four engines to stop. Volcanic ash is not like fireplace ash; it's pulverized rock that can be extremely abrasive and damaging to engines and harmful to humans if inhaled. Additionally, some volcanoes, especially those in remote areas, can have devastating impacts on nearby communities. The United States has around 190 volcanoes, with Alaska having 54 historically active ones. It's crucial to monitor and mitigate the risks posed by these volcanoes, particularly in terms of aviation safety.
Types of Volcanoes: Subduction, Hot Spot, and Mid-Ocean Ridge: Volcanoes form through plate tectonics and include subduction zone, hot spot, and mid-ocean ridge types. Subduction zones create volcanoes when one plate goes under another, hot spots from mantle plumes, and mid-ocean ridges are most common and underwater.
Volcanoes are formed due to plate tectonics and their types include subduction zone volcanoes, hot spot volcanoes, and mid-ocean ridge volcanoes. Subduction zone volcanoes, like those in Alaska, form when one tectonic plate subducts under another, while hot spot volcanoes, such as Yellowstone and Hawaii, are caused by hot mantle plumes. Mid-ocean ridge volcanoes are the most common type and are mostly underwater. Underwater volcanoes play a significant role in forming islands. Additionally, Lume whole body deodorant, a sponsor of this discussion, uses mandelic acid to control odor effectively and has a starter pack with various products and a discount for new customers. Lastly, Mother's Day is a time to appreciate caregivers and take care of oneself, including the skin, with products like those from OneSkin.
Volcanoes' magma composition impacts eruption type: Focusing on cellular aspects can maintain youthful skin, with OneSkin's product proven to slow aging cells. Use code 'sharon@oneskindot.co' for a 15% discount.
Magma's composition, specifically the presence of volatiles or gases, plays a crucial role in determining whether a volcano erupts explosively or effusively. This is similar to how the decrease in pressure in a bottle of carbonated beverage leads to the release of gas bubbles and eventual explosion if the gas content is high. In the realm of skin health, focusing on the cellular aspects, such as those influenced by certain ingredients, can contribute to maintaining a youthful appearance. OneSkin, the world's first skin longevity company, offers a product that has been proven to slow down aging cells. By supporting this show and using the code "sharon@oneskindot.co" for a 15% discount, you can help us and contribute to your skin's vitality.
Monitoring volcanic activity involves thermal changes, seismic activity, and visual observations: Color codes communicate the level of concern for volcanic activity, with green for background, yellow for above background, and orange for minor or imminent significant eruptions.
Monitoring volcanic activity involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining thermal changes, seismic activity, and visual observations. When signs of unrest are detected, aviation color codes are used to communicate the level of concern to the public. A color code of green indicates background activity, yellow signifies above background activity with potential for further development, and orange indicates a minor eruption or imminent significant eruption. Dormant volcanoes, like those in Hawaii, could potentially erupt again, while extinct volcanoes are no longer active. The use of color codes is a handy tool for conveying the level of concern and helping people understand the potential hazards.
Celebrating Mother's Day with 1 800 Flowers: Express love and gratitude to mothers with thoughtful gifts from 1 800 Flowers. Discover convenience and rewards with their Celebrations Passport.
This Mother's Day, show appreciation to all the amazing mothers in your life by giving back to them through thoughtful gifts from 1 800 Flowers. With a wide selection of handmade bouquets, sweet treats, gourmet food, and unique presents, 1 800 Flowers makes it easy to celebrate and deliver fresh. Plus, for a limited time, enjoy up to 40% off Mother's Day bestsellers. Reflecting on the importance of giving, the speaker shares their personal experience of being a great gift giver, which they attribute to the convenience and rewards offered by 1 800flowers.com's Celebrations Passport. The conversation then takes an unexpected turn as the speaker shares a fascinating story about a tragic plane crash into Mount Erebus in Antarctica. This volcanic mountain, located on a frozen continent, is an intriguing place where hot gases and ice create unique formations. The conversation ends with a discussion about the challenges and wonders of exploring volcanoes in snowy and icy conditions. In summary, Mother's Day is a time to express gratitude and love to the mothers in our lives. 1 800 Flowers makes it simple and rewarding to give thoughtful gifts, while the story of Mount Erebus offers a captivating reminder of the power and beauty of nature.
Exploring Alaska's remote volcanoes: Alaska's volcanoes are inaccessible, requiring helicopters, boats, or airplanes for exploration. Augustine Volcano offers a bear-free working environment, while Katmai Volcano, site of the largest eruption in recorded history, is famous for its abundant bear population and hidden history.
Volcano science, specifically in Alaska, is a unique and challenging field due to the remote locations of the volcanoes. For instance, none of Alaska's volcanoes are accessible by road, requiring the use of helicopters, boats, or airplanes for exploration. One of the speaker's favorite volcanoes is Augustine Volcano, located in Lower Cook Inlet, which last erupted in 2006 and offers a beautiful, bear-free working environment. The largest eruption in recorded history occurred in Alaska as well, at Katmai Volcano in 1912, which formed the Valley of 10,000 Smokes with the eruption of two separate volcanoes and the collapse of Katmai's summit. The valley was filled with ash, creating a surreal landscape of steam vents and a hidden history that took decades for scientists to uncover. Additionally, Katmai is famous for its abundant bear population, making it a popular tourist destination.
Exploring Magma Chambers: Geological Mapping and Geophysical Studies: Through geological mapping and geophysical studies, we can understand magma chambers' locations and structures, essential for volcanology careers. A strong foundation in science and computer programming is crucial.
Understanding the location and structure of magma chambers involves a combination of geological mapping and geophysical studies. Geologists study ash layers and their characteristics to determine the location and thickness of eruptions. Additionally, seismic tomography using seismometers can help create three-dimensional maps of magma chambers by detecting changes in wave velocities. For those interested in pursuing a career in this field, a strong foundation in science, particularly math and fundamental sciences, and proficiency in computer programming are essential. Education and taking advantage of opportunities are crucial. Despite the limited job openings, maintaining a curiosity about the natural world and seizing educational opportunities can lead to exciting careers in volcanology. If given the chance, I would love to visit the volcanoes in New Zealand due to their unique landscapes and numerous fascinating volcanoes. To learn more about the USGS and volcanology, check out their website or consider pursuing a degree in geology or a related field.
Stay informed about volcanic activity with AVO and USGS Volcanoes: Follow AVO and USGS Volcanoes on social media and listen to the Sharon Says So podcast for updates on volcanic activity
The Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) and the USGS Volcanoes program are excellent resources for staying informed about volcanic activity. AVO is one of five observatories under the USGS, and they have a strong online presence on websites like volcanoes.gov, as well as social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. The teams at these organizations are highly responsive to questions and provide regular updates, even during eruptions. To stay informed, consider following or subscribing to the Sharon Says So podcast, and don't forget to follow AVO and USGS Volcanoes on social media. Your support, including ratings, reviews, and shares, helps podcasters like Sharon continue to produce engaging content. Stay curious and keep learning!
