The Quest for Black Lava
Imagine holding a cocktail shaker filled with black lava from a volcano crater in Tanzania. It may not be a typical sight, but for researchers studying the world’s strangest volcano, Ol Doinyo Lengai, it is a treasure trove of valuable information.
A Tricky Task
Collecting lava from a volcano is usually a straightforward process. Armed with shovels, researchers can scoop up lava samples from a flowing stream and preserve them for study. However, the unique properties of Ol Doinyo Lengai’s carbonatite lava make the task more challenging. This volcano stands 23 storeys tall, with its lava located at the bottom of a steep crater.
The Uniqueness of Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only known volcano in the solar system that still erupts carbonatite lava. This type of lava offers intriguing insights into Earth’s geology and provides a glimpse into an otherwise inaccessible part of our planet.
Peering into Earth’s Mantle
Earth’s mantle, comprising 84% of the planet’s volume, is a hot, solid yet pliable layer that shapes our world. It generates eruptive materials, drives plate tectonics, and forms the foundation for mountain ranges, ocean basins, and continents. Despite its significance, our understanding of the mantle remains limited. Ol Doinyo Lengai’s black lava presents a unique opportunity to unravel its mysteries.
The Window into Earth’s Secrets
Studying the black lava from Ol Doinyo Lengai provides valuable insights into the Earth’s mantle. By examining the lava’s composition and properties, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how the mantle operates. This knowledge can shed light on processes such as the recycling of tectonic plates and the origins of the mantle’s extreme heat.
Unlocking the Mysteries
The quest to uncover Earth’s secrets is an ongoing endeavor. By studying Ol Doinyo Lengai’s black lava, scientists hope to unravel the mysteries of our planet’s mantle. This research not only expands our knowledge of Earth’s geology but also contributes to a better understanding of volcanic activity and its potential impact on our world.
Correction Note
*This article has been amended on 9 December 2021 to correct the comparison between the temperature of the lava and boiling water.
