New clues to prehistoric volcano eruption in Australia

Scientists have determined the magnitude of the Mount Gambier volcano eruption 5,000 years ago, and say if a similar eruption occurred again, it could cause widespread damage.

The Mt Schank crater in Mt Gambier [Credit: Monash University]

Detailed in the Bulletin of Volcanology, researchers from Monash University’s Volcanology Research Group (MONVOLC) used 3D geometrical computer modelling and thermodynamics – the study of the relationship between different forms of energy – to determine the size and magnitude of the Mount Gambier eruption.

It is believed to be the first time the magnitude and size of a volcano on Australian mainland has been calculated, based on volume estimates of the volcanic deposits, and modelling of the volcanic plume, ash-dispersal and thermodynamics. [...] archaeologynewsnetwork