The influence of temperature‐dependent viscosity on lava flow dynamics

• DOI: 10.1002/jgrf.20111
• Publication Date: 2013-07-19T11:09:50Z
• Authors: S. Diniega; S. E. Smrekar; S. Anderson; E. R. Stofan
• Keywords: 13. Climate action; 01 natural sciences; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

Abstract Many studies have investigated how channels and tubes form within basaltic flows. The partitioning of a broad lava flow into narrow regions enhanced velocity (which we refer to as preferred pathways) can affect emplacement, allow flows reach great lengths on Earth other planets. In this study, investigate the role that dynamic instability, driven by large changes in viscosity due small temperature, play formation propagation low‐viscosity pathways. We use fluid dynamics‐based model laminar emplacement examines process exclusively. Analysis shows pathways will initiate when temperature dependence lava's is sufficiently strong. If pathway develops, it stabilize over distance reflects competition between cooling rate through flow's surfaces pathway. Using rates typical Earth, able produce with reasonable dimensions timescales. also fails such situations where are not found nature (e.g., basalt sheet silicic < 1 km length). These results positive demonstrate thermodynamic instability may some flows, thus merit further investigation.