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Connections established between Volcanic Eruption & Ionospheric Disturbances

Posted 22 Oct 2024

2 min read

A recent study by Indian Institute of Geomagnetism establishes the role of volcanism in shaping space weather.

Key findings of the study

  • Ionospheric Disturbance: Volcanic eruptions produce strong atmospheric gravity waves triggering formation of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs).
    • EPBs, normally observed in the equatorial ionosphere, are depletions in ionospheric plasma density formed during post-sunset hours.
  • Impacts Satellite Communication and Navigation Systems: Generated EPBs can impact satellite communication and satellite-based technologies.

Volcanism and its Impacts 

  • A volcano is an opening in Earth's crust through which lava, ash, and gases erupt. Recent incidents include Mount Ruang (Indonesia, 2024), Whakaari/White Island (New Zealand, 2024), etc.

Positive Impacts of Volcanic activities

  • Short periods of cooling Earth’s atmosphere: Particles from volcanoes can cause temporary cooling by shading incoming solar radiation
  • Source of geothermal energy: can  provide free electricity for locals
  • Improvement in soil fertility by  ejected volcanic ash 
  • Provides Mining opportunities as magma brings valuable minerals to the surface.
  • Others: Tourism potential; ash acts as soil fertilizer, etc. 

Negative Consequences of Volcanic activity

  • Impact on Climate: With the release of dust, ash, and other gases into the atmosphere.
  • Lead to disasters such as Tsunami (E.g. Tonga eruptions (2022) 
  • Others: Leads to damage of lives, property, habitat, and landscapes
  • Tags :
  • Volcanic Eruption
  • Indian Institute of Geomagnetism
  • Ionospheric Disturbance
  • Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs)
  • Volcanism
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