Hawaiian eruptions
Volcano Learning zone > Volcano Glossary
Hawaiian eruptions are characterised by the long flowing rivers of basaltic lava which gradully build up into vast shield volcanoes. Lava fountains, fissure eruptions and lava flows are the main characteristics. Eruptions are effusive rather than explosive and are generally much safer. Basalt can form two distinctive lava flows one called "pahoehoe" in Hawaiin or rope like and "aa aa" which popular myth says is the sound you make if you walk on it bare foot-its very sharp.Basalt can form two distinctive lava flows one called "pahoehoe" in Hawaiin or rope like and "aa aa" which popular myth says is the sound you make if you walk on it bare foot-its very sharp.
Pahoehoe is very fluid and flows like custard or treacle, it can form channels which then roof over to form lava tubes. Aa aa is a slower moving flow with a steep front and is blocky and jagged.