The role of laboratory experiments in volcanology

摘要

Experiment is central to scientific methodology. Within science in general, experiments are used for four primary purposes, i.e. as a tool to explore novel phenomena and to provide systematic observations of processes, to determine the values of key parameters, to test hypotheses and theoretical models, and to validate computational models, which themselves can be considered as numerical experiments. The study of volcanic eruptions and magmatic processes is becoming increasingly systematic, quantitative and rigorous. The drive is towards providing detailed quantitative descriptions and models of the flow phenomena in terms of fundamental physico-chemical processes. This is motivated in no small way by an increasing need for reliable and quantitative predictions of volcanic eruptions on which to base rational hazard and risk management decisions during volcanic crises. A natural consequence of this development of the scientific study of volcanic flow phenomena is that rigorous laboratory experimentation is becoming an increasingly important feature within volcanic research.