II. Volcano Lava Investigations

Use of Corn Starch for a 45oslope of flow. [ Corn Starch provides thicker "lava", but  seems more difficult to manage.]

Corn Starch "lava" flow timed [Area/sec]

Another trial of our Lava flow [Viscosity Vs. Speed] (using Corn Starch)

Using Bisquick Mix for the "lava" thickness. Note the curved flow shape

Lava Activities are adapted from:

A. Problem:
    Although a lova flow isn't as dangerous as a pyrocastic eruption, severe damage can be sustained by people and property in it's way.

• If a volcano did erupt inyour community, where would the materials flow?
• What factors would control the size, shape, and length of the flow?
• How would an eruption similar to the one on Mt. St. Helens affect your community?

• Make and record a prediction about what you think will happen. Then explain your prediction. (e.g.Substantiate/ validate your answer).
• [N.B. Keep as many variables constant as possible; try to control all variables except one, the independent variable.]                                 ^TOP?

• Effect of slope of the land on lava speed: 15^o  angle slope, 30^o  angle slope, and 45^o  angle slope.

 

 
 
 

 1. Place a sheet of laminated graph paper on the sloping  surface.
  2. Determine the unit standard you will use to measure amounts of fluid material. Try for the smallest units.
  3. Time the flow for 3-5 seconds, and note where on the grid the fluid material stopped.
  4. Re-test this several (10 at least) times, and carefully trace the area of flow (with dry-erase marker on transparency),  record the slope, time, and area (area inside the fluid material)
 

• Effect of viscosity on speed of flow: Test 2 models:
• Model #1 using Bisquick mix and tap water
• Model #2 using Corn Starch and tap water
*Use the same  procedure as above for each mixture.

E. Summarize your Results and Draw Conclusions