This project seeks to document the growth and long-term magmatic evolution of Mauna Loa volcano on the western, Loa side of the Hawaii plume to reveal physical, chemical, and temporal variations across its entirety. The long-term magmatic evolution of a volcano along the Kea trend of the plume has been well-documented by the Hawaii Scientific Drilling Project (HSDP) studies. There is no comparable long-term magmatic history of a volcano on the Loa side of the plume. The P.I.s propose to obtain a magmatic record for the Loa side from samples that have been collected along a 1.6 km thick sequence of lavas exposed by a giant landslide scarp that dissects Mauna Loa's submarine south-west rift zone. They request funding to undertake an intensive 40Ar/39Ar investigation of lavas from these sections and adjacent dredge hauls.

Broader Impacts This study includes several national and international partnerships and the training of graduate and undergraduate students. It also will improve understanding of the stability of the flanks of Hawaii volcanoes. Failure of the flanks of volcanoes is thought to pose a serious hazard to the population of the islands.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Ocean Sciences (OCE)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
0825659
Program Officer
Richard L. Carlson
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2008-09-01
Budget End
2011-08-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$102,866
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Wisconsin Madison
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Madison
State
WI
Country
United States
Zip Code
53715