Final answer:
The three main materials extruded during volcanic eruptions are lava, which solidifies into igneous rock; volcanic ash and fine particles that disperse over wide areas; and various volcanic gases, including water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.
Step-by-step explanation:
Volcanic eruptions are formidable geological events that expel several types of material from the earth’s crust. The 3 main extruded materials during volcanic eruptions include:
- Lava: This is molten rock that emerges as a liquid at the surface and solidifies into igneous rocks as it cools. Lava is often associated with the classic image of flowing volcanic material.
- Volcanic ash and fine particles: When a volcano erupts explosively, it sends clouds of fine, glassy particles and ash into the atmosphere. This material can spread across large areas and is significant in determining the age of cultural materials when used for dating purposes.
- Volcanic gases: A range of gases are released, including water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, which have various effects on the environment. These gases also contributed to forming Earth’s early atmosphere.
Other significant materials extruded during eruptions include tuff, formed by light volcanic ash, and volcanic glass, such as obsidian, produced by the rapid cooling of viscous lava.