The Mechanics and Rate of Phase Separation in Magmatic Systems

Magma chambers are accumulations of magma under the crust or beneath volcanoes. These are believed to be “mushy,” as they contain many crystals as well as liquid magma. The process of separation of these crystals from melt has important implications for volcanic eruptions, as well as planet formation. The physics of this process is highly complex and is not well understood. 

A research project led by Professor Christian Huber and recent PhD graduate Darien Florez, in collaboration with researchers at MIT, used a combination of methods to study this separation process, including physics-based modeling, laboratory experiments, and field work. Researchers also made trips to Nevada to exhume samples of frozen magma chambers to validate the theory.

This study has advanced our understanding of magmatic systems and the rate of the separation process. This is useful in forecasting volcanic hazards by allowing scientists to estimate how fast the magma chamber under a volcano gets ready for another eruption. The understanding of this physics also provides a valuable template to understanding the evolution of early planets and ocean sediment. 

“This physics is not uncommon, we apply it to magmatic systems, but it has implications beyond that.” –Christian Huber