Long-standing volcanic eruption theory might be backward: Eruptions could be triggered when bubbles vanish into magma—not when they burst out.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Richter, Hannah 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on new research suggesting that volcanic eruptions may be triggered not by the formation of gas bubbles in magma, as traditionally thought, but by the reabsorption of these bubbles back into the magma. This conclusion arises from the analysis of apatite crystals in rocks from Japan’s Aso volcano, which indicate that bubbles disappeared prior to its major eruption 86,000 years ago. The study proposes that bubble reabsorption reduces magma compressibility, causing pressure to build until an eruption occurs, challenging the long-standing view that bubble growth increases eruption pressure. While some experts find the hypothesis plausible, further research is needed to confirm its applicability across different volcanic systems. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/03, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Geology
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:192603351
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