Friday, June 04, 2010

Interesting facts about Hawaii Volcano Lava

Did you realize that the Hawaiian Islands is on top of huge undersea volcanoes? Few people do! There are more than fifteen volcanoes in what we consider to be Hawaii, but currently only three are considered active. It's not just the Hawaiian beaches, you should visit - also take a look at volcanoes in Hawaii, while you're there! Besides this Hawaii cruises are one of the good ways to enjoy the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaii Volcano Lava: Hawaii - Basics


Hawaii consists of eight main islands. They are Hawaii, Kauai, Niihau, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui and Oahu. There is a small island called Kaila, and then nine more land masses above sea level, bringing the total to eighteen islands. Some people also like to take account of the hundred plus rocks and islets, which also displays above the waterline. Altogether that makes 130 or so throughout the area. All these are considered to be volcanic, sedimentary or marine erosion origin. This explains why the Hawaiian Islands and lava from Hawaiian volcanoes will be forever linked.

How this Hawaii Volcano Lava took shape?

These volcanoes were in a "hot spot" on earth. Because Hawaiian volcanic lava erupting eventually these grew higher than sea level, making the islands. So seabed moved with a speed of 7-9 cm per year, volcanoes moved northwards, pulling away from "hot spots." These volcanoes are no longer active. But the two still are Mauna Loa and Kilauea.

There is also Lo'ihi, a new volcano! As Lo `IHI is still about one thousand meters below sea level, there is nothing so attractive to watch than see level. The two other active volcanoes are Mauna Loa and Kilauea.

Hawaii Volcano Lava: About Hawaiian Volcano Lava

Modern geologists and volcanologists have two words to describe lava flows from Hawaiian volcanoes. The two words are Pahoehoe and 'a'a.

Pahoehoe is a smooth surface and lava flow. By contrast 'a'a is a rough and broken surface lava flow. The Hawaiian Dictionary means Pahoehoe "smooth and uninterrupted, or satin (as substance)."

Traditionally, the concept of 'a'a supposed to be the sound of someone walking across the lava in bare feet. Although this gives a clever story, it's not quite fit with reality. According to Hawaiian Dictionary 'a'a means many things, including a small root or vein, to challenge, stoned to burn. Perhaps the definitions of burning or challenge is what prompted Hawaiians call volcanic lava of these types of 'a'a.

Whatever the true meaning, be sure to check both types while you are visiting Hawaii and see the volcanic lava.

No comments: