Pyroclastic eruptions, also known as explosive eruptions, are the type of volcanic eruptions that are associated with the release of pyroclastic materials. These eruptions are characterized by the violent ejection of rock fragments, ash, and hot gases into the atmosphere.
Pyroclastic materials include a range of particle sizes, from fine ash to large volcanic bombs and blocks. These materials are propelled into the air by explosive forces generated by the rapid expansion of volcanic gases. They can travel long distances from the volcano and can be extremely hazardous to both human life and property.
Pyroclastic eruptions are typically associated with stratovolcanoes, which are steep-sided volcanoes composed of alternating layers of lava and pyroclastic deposits. Some examples of volcanoes that have had pyroclastic eruptions in the past include Mount St. Helens in the United States, Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines, and Mount Vesuvius in Italy.