Final answer:
The eruptive activity of Mount St. Helens is more concerning to volcanologists than the eruptive activity on the islands of Hawaii primarily because Mount St. Helens is known for its explosive eruptions, which can have significant impact on the surrounding environment and communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The eruptive activity of Mount St. Helens is more concerning to volcanologists than the eruptive activity on the islands of Hawaii primarily because of the nature of the eruptions. Mount St. Helens is known for its explosive eruptions, which can have significant impact on the surrounding environment and communities. On the other hand, the volcanoes in Hawaii, such as Kilauea, generally have effusive eruptions, where the lava flows more slowly and poses less immediate danger to human life and property.
In 1980, Mount St. Helens had a major eruption that caused the northern slope of the mountain to collapse, resulting in a devastating landslide. This eruption also released tremendous amounts of carbon-containing gases into the atmosphere. The eruption killed 57 people and destroyed hundreds of square miles of forest.
In contrast, the volcanoes in Hawaii have been continuously active for millions of years due to the presence of a mantle hot spot. These volcanoes have been mostly effusive, with lava flowing down the sides of the volcano. Although the lava flows can cause damage to property, they are generally predictable, allowing for better management and evacuation.