Bimodal volcanism
- 1 min read
- 2 chapters
Related on Lably
Through Volcanism, Rift and Metamorphic rock
Occurrence
Most occurrences of bimodal volcanism are associated with thinning of the crust and the presence of such rocks in metamorphic sequences has been used to provide evidence for past rifting events. Most examples come from areas of active continental rifting such as the Basin and Range Province. Bimodal volcanism has also been described from areas of transtension, the early phases of back-arc basin formation and in the products of both continental and oceanic hotspots (e.g. Yellowstone, Anahim and the Canary Islands).
Sign in to keep reading
One more chapter is free with a Lably account.
Mechanism of formation
Bimodal volcanism is normally explained as a result of partial melting of the crust, creating granitic magmas, during the emplacement of large volumes of relatively hot basaltic magma from a mantle source. The two magma types then form separate magma chambers giving rise to periodic eruption of both types of lava.