Hawaii Volcanoes Explorer the Largest Oceanic lava flow trekking adventure of Explorer Riley 2021

Summary

The video explores the fascinating geology of Hawaii's volcanic landscape, focusing on the Hawaiian hot spot and its role in forming the island chain. It discusses the three main types of volcanoes—cinder cones, composite, and shield—highlighting the characteristics of notable volcanoes like Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Viewers learn about the different types of lava, volcanic activity, and the environmental impact of eruptions, particularly in populated areas. Kilauea, known for its frequent eruptions, is emphasized as the youngest active volcano, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Hawaiian islands.

Takeaways

• 🌋 The Hawaiian island chain is formed by the Pacific tectonic plate moving northwest over a hot spot, which creates new volcanoes.
• 🔥 The Hawaiian hot spot is approximately 50 miles in diameter and produces volcanoes as the tectonic plate shifts.
• ⬇️ The weight of the volcanic islands causes them to slowly sink, with the Big Island sinking at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per decade.
• 🏝️ There are three main types of volcanoes: cinder cones, composite volcanoes, and shield volcanoes.
• 🌄 Shield volcanoes, like Mauna Loa and Kilauea, are essential in forming large islands and can produce long-lasting lava flows.
• 💧 When lava enters the ocean, it creates steam explosions, leading to the formation of black sand beaches and green sand beaches.
• 🌡️ Hawaiian lava can reach temperatures of up to 2200 degrees Fahrenheit, making it extremely hot compared to other volcanic regions.
• 🌋 Kilauea, the youngest volcano above sea level in Hawaii, is one of the most active volcanoes globally, erupting more than 60 times in the last century.
• 🏔️ Mauna Kea is the highest volcano in Hawaii, standing at 13,709 feet, while Mauna Loa is the largest active volcano on Earth.
• 🌀 The continuous lava flows from Kilauea have caused significant property damage to nearby towns and beaches over the years.

Q & A

What geological feature is the Hawaiian island chain resting on?

The Hawaiian island chain rests on the Pacific tectonic plate.

How does the Pacific tectonic plate move each year?

The Pacific tectonic plate moves northwest about four inches every year.

What is a hot spot in geological terms?

A hot spot is a weakened area in the oceanic crust where magma can rise up, forming volcanoes that eventually become islands.

What types of volcanoes are found in Hawaii?

Hawaii has three types of volcanoes: cinder cones, composite volcanoes, and shield volcanoes.

What is the difference between a'ā lava and pahoehoe lava?

A'ā lava is sharp and rough with hardened gas bubbles, while pahoehoe lava is smooth, running in ribbons and can have an iridescent sheen when fresh.

Which Hawaiian island is currently experiencing the most volcanic activity?

The Big Island is currently experiencing the most volcanic activity as it is situated above the hot spot.

What are the names of some significant volcanoes on the Big Island?

Significant volcanoes on the Big Island include Mauna Loa, Kilauea, Hualalai, Kohala, and the submerged Lo'ihi.

What is unique about Kilauea compared to other volcanoes in Hawaii?

Kilauea is the youngest volcano above sea level in Hawaii and is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, having erupted more than 60 times in the last century.

How has human settlement near Kilauea impacted the area during eruptions?

Many people live near Kilauea's east rift zone, leading to catastrophic property damage during eruptions, destroying towns like Kalapana, Kaimu, and Kapoho.

What is the temperature of molten lava in Hawaii?

Molten lava in Hawaii has been measured to be as hot as 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit.