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General Studies Prelims

General Studies (Mains)

Mount Sinabung Erupts, Sends Ash 7km High

Mount Sinabung, a highly active volcano situated in Indonesia, experienced a significant outburst that lasted for about nine minutes on the 9th of June, 2019. This sudden eruption resulted in a massive volcanic ash cloud reaching as high as 7 km into the atmosphere. Standing at an impressive height of 2,460 m, Mount Sinabung is recognized as one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. Interestingly, this geological giant remained dormant for four centuries prior to its eruption in 2010. Indonesia, home to nearly 130 active volcanoes, holds the record for the country with the most active volcanoes globally. Located on the renowned “Ring of Fire,” an extensive arc of volcanoes and fault lines encircling the Pacific Basin, the Indonesian landscape is particularly susceptible to potent seismic activity.

Mount Sinabung: A Dormant Giant Awakens

After spending four centuries asleep, Mount Sinabung startled the world with its explosive awakening in 2010. The eruption was an alarming reminder of the hidden power of this 2,460 m high volcano. After remaining inactive for such an extended period, Mount Sinabung has now transformed into one of Indonesia’s most unpredictable and monitored volcanic sites.

The 9th June 2019 Eruption: Nine Minutes of Fury

The significant eruption on the 9th of June, 2019 was a striking display of nature’s raw power, as Mt. Sinabung spewed ash and smoke 7 km up into the sky. This daunting spectacle, which lasted for approximately nine minutes, served as a stark reminder of the volcano’s ferocity and unpredictability.

Indonesia: The Land of Active Volcanoes

As Indonesia is located along the fault-prone “Ring of Fire”, it has the highest number of active volcanoes in the world, reaching nearly 130. This extensive arc of fault lines and volcanoes has rendered Indonesia highly susceptible to powerful seismic activities.

Volcano Name Height(m) Last Eruption
Mount Sinabung 2,460 2019
Mount Merapi 2,930 2021
Mount Kelud 1,731 2014

The “Ring of Fire”: A Hotbed of Seismic Activity

Indonesia’s placement on the “Ring of Fire”, an expansive arc of volcanoes and fault lines surrounding the Pacific Basin, makes it a prime hotspot for frequent and intense seismic activities. The geological conditions present in this area are conducive to the formation and eruption of many volcanoes, making it a key area of study for geologists and volcanologists worldwide.

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