![]() ![]() We reveal that a volumetric crystal density variation may occur over an eruption time period, if right conditions are met to form stratifications and instabilities in magma chambers. These characteristics are dependent on viscosity, convection vigor, crystal volume density and crystal characteristics. Alterations include stratification, differential settling and instabilities. Our method provides a detailed picture of magma chambers, which we compare to other models and experiments to identify when and how crystals alter magma chamber convection. We create Rayleigh-Taylor instability through a cool top layer and hot bottom layer and update magma density while keeping crystal temperature and size constant. ![]() The modeled magma is assumed to be a viscous, incompressible fluid with a liquid and solid phase. To simulate basaltic magma chambers in thermal convection, we built a numerical solver of the Navier-Stoke's equation, continuity equation, and energy equation. ![]() We introduce a computational method that fully resolves the crystalline phase. However, a comparison of experiments and simulations of convecting magma with crystals suggest that large crystal volume densities and crystal sizes alter fluid flow considerably. Simulations and experiments that observe retention zones assume crystals do not alter the convection in the fluid. The region where crystals reside is identified as a retention zone: convection velocity balances settling velocity. We ask the question: Under what conditions can homogenous magma chamber cultivate crystalline heterogeneities? In some laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, a horizontal variation is observed. This has been seen in Hawai'i's Kilauea Iki 1959 eruption however it is not common for all Kilauea or basaltic eruptions. Crystalline heterogeneities and instabilities in thermally convecting magma chamberĪ volcanic vent can supply different densities of crystals over an eruption time period.
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