Volcanoes are immense geological features that represent some of the most dynamic and destructive forces on Earth. The sudden, powerful release of molten rock, gas, and ash from the planet’s interior presents both a significant hazard and a profound scientific mystery. Understanding the inner workings of these fiery mountains is paramount for public safety, as eruptions can impact global climate, air travel, and human settlements hundreds of miles away.
The Name for Volcano Scientists
The scientists who dedicate their careers to the study of volcanoes and volcanic phenomena are called volcanologists. This term is derived from “volcanology,” which is the specific branch of geoscience focused on all aspects of volcanism, including lava, magma, and related geological events. A volcanologist is essentially a geologist who specializes in the formation, structure, and eruptive activity of volcanoes, both active and dormant. Their work is often a mix of field observation and laboratory analysis.
The Core Focus of Volcanology
A central objective of volcanology is the prediction of eruptions, which involves monitoring subtle changes to forecast when a volcano is likely to become unstable. Volcanologists analyze various aspects of a volcano’s behavior, seeking precursor signals that indicate the movement of magma beneath the surface. This includes tracking the historical geology of a volcanic region to understand past eruption patterns and recurrence intervals, although past behavior does not guarantee future activity.
Scientists also study the physical and chemical characteristics of volcanic materials to gain insight into the subterranean system. They analyze magma composition, lava flow characteristics, and the makeup of ejected ash and rock samples in a field known as petrology. Another major area of focus is the measurement of gas emissions, particularly sulfur dioxide ($\text{SO}_2$) and carbon dioxide ($\text{CO}_2$), as changes in the ratio of these gases can signal the pre-eruptive degassing of magma chambers. By integrating all these data points, volcanologists build a comprehensive picture of the volcano’s internal plumbing and potential hazards.
Essential Tools and Fieldwork
Volcanologists divide their time between fieldwork and analytical work conducted in laboratories and observatories. Fieldwork involves collecting samples of lava, tephra, and rock from active or recently active volcanoes, often requiring travel to isolated or remote locations. This work is supported by specialized tools designed to measure volcanic unrest:
- Seismometers track earthquakes and tremors caused by magma forcing its way upward through rock.
- Tiltmeters and Global Positioning System (GPS) instruments measure ground deformation, detecting minute changes in the volcano’s slope or shape as magma accumulates beneath the surface.
- Gas sensors remotely measure the chemical composition and flux of volcanic gases.
- Remote sensing technology, such as satellite imagery and drones, monitors thermal changes and maps eruption plumes from a safer distance.
The Path to Becoming a Volcanologist
Becoming a volcanologist requires extensive postsecondary education. An aspiring professional typically begins with a Bachelor of Science degree in a foundational field such as Geology, Geophysics, or Earth Science. Due to the specialized nature of the work, most volcanologists pursue advanced degrees, with a Master of Science (M.S.) or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) being common requirements for research and observatory positions.
Graduate-level study allows for specialization in sub-disciplines like physical volcanology, geochemistry, or geodesy, which focuses on ground deformation. Coursework emphasizes a strong background in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, along with advanced training in data analysis and computational modeling. Strong communication skills are necessary for effectively conveying hazard information to government agencies and the public. Practical experience is gained through fieldwork, internships, and post-doctoral research positions. Volcanologists often find employment with government geological surveys, such as the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), as well as in academic research at universities.
Volcanology Within Earth Science
Volcanology is an inherently interdisciplinary field that draws heavily on several other specialties within the Earth sciences. The field relies on seismology, the study of earthquakes, because the movement of magma that precedes an eruption generates distinct seismic signals that must be interpreted. This integration allows volcanologists to use seismic data to reveal the internal plumbing structure of a volcano.
Geophysics contributes methods for studying the physical properties of the Earth’s interior, utilizing gravity and magnetic measurements to map subterranean magma bodies. Petrology, the study of rocks, is used to analyze the chemical and physical changes in volcanic products, which provides a record of the processes that occurred deep within the Earth before and during an eruption. By combining these diverse approaches, volcanology places the processes of volcanic activity into the broader context of plate tectonics and planetary evolution.