Final answer:
A volcanic eruption's nature depends on the magma composition, temperature, and dissolved gases. Magma composition affects its viscosity, temperature influences how easily it flows, and dissolved gases can cause explosive eruptions when they build up pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nature of a volcanic eruption is determined by three key factors: 1) the composition of the magma, 2) the temperature of the magma, and 3) the quantity of dissolved gases contained in the magma.
The magma composition affects how easily the magma flows. More viscous (sticky) magma can lead to a more explosive eruption as gases get trapped. This type of magma often forms rhyolite or andesite volcanoes.
Magma temperature affects its viscosity; hot magma is less viscous and can flow more easily than cooler magma, which makes the eruption less violent.
Dissolved gases in magma are a critical factor in pushing the magma to the surface leading to an eruption. If there is a lot of gas, the gas pressure can cause an explosive eruption. However, if there is less gas, the magma may simply extrude onto the surface, causing a non-explosive eruption.
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