Abstract
STROMBOLI is one of the most noted but least studied of volcanoes. The regularity of the weak explosions which, succeeding each other at intervals of a few minutes, characterize its normal state, gives rise to the idea that its action is always thus uniform and monotonous, and the occasional paroxysms to which it is subject are apt to be overlooked. In reality the so-called Strombolian phase of volcanic activity differs from the Plinian phase exhibited by Vesuvius and certain other volcanoes merely by the absence of intervals of perfect repose between the violent outbursts which are characteristic of the latter type. It is in this difference that the explanation of the fact is to be found, that from time immemorial no explosion in any way comparable to the great explosions of Vesuvius have occurred at Stromboli; for the ceaseless activity of the latter prevents the accumulation of sufficient force to produce a powerful and destructive effect. But from time to time the throat of the volcano does get more or less choked, and the efforts of the imprisoned vapour to escape result in an eruptive phase of some violence. Such an event took place during the Latter months of last year, and the following description of the phenomena is based on the observations of Profs. Ricco and Mercalli, and of Ing. Arcidiacono.
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FULCHER, L. Stromboli in 18911. Nature 47, 89–90 (1892). https://doi.org/10.1038/047089b0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/047089b0