Mount Erebus, located in Antarctica, has garnered significant attention from scientists due to an unusual phenomenon. While this active volcano typically emits steam, gases, and rocks, it has recently been found to release tiny pieces of crystallized gold.
Discovery of Gold Particles
Reports indicate that golden particles carried by the wind have been found as far as 621 miles away from Mount Erebus’ summit. The estimated value of these particles is over $6,000 (approximately Rs 5 lakh).
Geological Significance
Standing at 12,448 feet, Mount Erebus is one of Antarctica’s 138 active volcanoes. NASA scientists believe that molten rock from deep within the Earth carries gold particles to the surface, where they crystallize in the extreme cold.
Unusual Gold Formation
While volcanoes can produce gold in gas or liquid forms, Mount Erebus is unique. It produces solid gold particles that travel through the air and eventually settle as dust. According to GeologyHub, Mount Erebus is the only known volcano to produce solid gold particles instead of dispersing the gold as gas or liquid.
Production and Value of Gold
Mount Erebus produces around 64.4 lbs of gold annually, valued at approximately $2 million. However, mining this gold is considered too dangerous due to the volcano’s unpredictable and explosive nature.
The Volcano’s Other Features
- Lava Lake: Mount Erebus has a lava lake in its summit crater, active since at least 1972.
- Location: Overlooking the McMurdo research station on Ross Island, Erebus is monitored primarily by satellite due to its remote location.
- Historical Significance: Discovered in 1841 by polar explorer James Ross, it is Antarctica’s second-highest volcano, after Mount Sidley.
- Penguin Colony: Ross Island, where Erebus is located, is home to a colony of approximately 500,000 Adelie penguins.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What unusual substance has Mount Erebus been releasing recently?
- a) Steam
- b) Rocks
- c) Gases
- d) Crystallized gold
Answer: d) Crystallized gold
- How far were the gold particles found from Mount Erebus’ summit?
- a) 100 miles
- b) 250 miles
- c) 621 miles
- d) 1,000 miles
Answer: c) 621 miles
- What is the estimated value of the gold particles released by Mount Erebus?
- a) $2,000
- b) $6,000
- c) $10,000
- d) $20,000
Answer: b) $6,000
- How much gold does Mount Erebus produce annually?
- a) 20 lbs
- b) 40 lbs
- c) 64.4 lbs
- d) 100 lbs
Answer: c) 64.4 lbs
- Why is mining the gold from Mount Erebus considered dangerous?
- a) Extreme cold temperatures
- b) Random volcanic explosions
- c) Remote location
- d) High altitude
Answer: b) Random volcanic explosions