Basically, the goals of volcanology are to understand how and why volcanoes erupt, how to predict eruptions, their impacts on the history of the Earth and how they may affect humans and their environment.
Essentially, volcanology can be broken down into four major groups of study. First, physical volcanologists study the actual processes and deposits of volcanic eruptions. Data gathered through this type of study gives volcanologists information about where and how volcanoes are likely to erupt, especially if nobody has seen them presently active. Collecting this data is very time-consuming. Gas masks connected to tanks of air allow the volcanologist to breathe when the air around them is full of poisonous gas.
Volcanologists wear asbestos gloves to pick up red-hot lava. Asbestos is an insulating material that blocks heat. A special set of tools is needed to study volcanoes. This includes a magnifying glass, which makes things appear much bigger. Scientists also specialize in remote sensing of volcanic hazards using satellites or remote cameras , mathematical modeling of volcanic processes, Geographic Information Systems GIS mapping, electronics development, computer programing, and hazards education.
Most volcanologists have strong backgrounds in one or more of the natural sciences including geology, chemistry, and physics, as well as computer science and mathematics. If you are still in high school, you can prepare by taking as many math, chemistry and physics courses as your school offers. It is also a good idea to become acquainted with computers, software and computer programming languages. Many universities provide educational opportunities that could put you on track to becoming a volcanologist.
The choice of undergraduate and graduate level study depends upon your individual interest. Undergraduate education requirements emphasize natural sciences calculus, physics, chemistry, and geology. Once you start your undergraduate studies, look for internships and volunteer opportunities. They are good ways to obtain valuable training and experience for the future.
They then examine this data in a laboratory, usually for one of three purposes: to understand why volcanoes behave, to understand how volcanoes work, and to predict future eruptions for the safety of local populations. Some will also study the geological history of a particular volcano. Depending on their place of employment, some Volcanologists may also teach private classes or the public about the importance of volcanoes.
Typically, Volcanologists split their workdays between conducting fieldwork and working in a laboratory. During fieldwork, scientists may be required to venture to exotic or isolated locations where active or dormant volcanoes reside. They must collect various samples and data, generally in an outdoor area. Those hoping to become a Volcanologist must be prepared to travel, spend extended periods of time away from home, perform strenuous physical activities, and brave adverse weather conditions.
Once they have finished collecting samples, they return to their laboratory to analyze their data. They then must communicate their findings to a group of scientists. Volcanologists employed by universities may also be required to spend time in a classroom environment.
Most of these scientists work full-time and may be required to work extended hours when performing fieldwork, which is quite frequent. Post to EnvironmentalScience.
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