Documenting the Origin of Compositional Diversity of Subduction Zone Magmatism, Alicudi, Aeolian Arc (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy) Using in situ Plagioclase Data

Author

Rachel Hunt, Central Washington University

Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2012

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Geological Sciences

Committee Chair

Wendy Bohrson

Second Committee Member

Chris Mattinson

Third Committee Member

John Wolff

Abstract

Processes that generate magma compositional diversity are important to document because composition affects degree of explosivity, which impacts hazard mitigation. Magnesium to silicon rich magmas are produced by processes such as magma recharge, assimilation, and fractional crystallization (RAFC) that occur in subvolcanic magma chamber(s). This study evaluates how magma chamber processes contribute to compositional diversity at Alicudi Volcano, Italy. Analytical and petrographic data from ten samples that span the subaerial history include whole rock major and trace elements and strontium/neodymium isotopes, and plagioclase textural types, major and trace elements, and strontium isotopes; numerical modeling was also conducted. Integration of these data suggests that recharge, assimilation, storage at different levels below the volcano, and homogenization occur in Alicudi’s magmatic system. Magma bodies shoaled and coalesced as the volcanic system matured. Understanding the physical and geochemical constraints of magma formation in plumbing systems enhances eruption prediction and hazard mitigation.

Recommended Citation

Hunt, Rachel, "Documenting the Origin of Compositional Diversity of Subduction Zone Magmatism, Alicudi, Aeolian Arc (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy) Using in situ Plagioclase Data" (2012). All Master's Theses. 1451.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/etd/1451

Comments

More raw data and appendices can be found here.