Application of Remote Sensing Data to the Study of Geology in Joshua Tree National Park, California

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Tightening Constraints on the Origin of
Icelands Lava Christy A Carter, Andrew Barth
Faculty Mentor Department of Geology, Indiana
university Purdue University Indianapolis
Studying the products of volcanic systems will
lead to a better understanding of how systems
develop and potentially help predict eruptions.
During a recent trip to Iceland, crystals were
observed in lava flows at Torfajökull volcano
complex. These crystals are of importance
because, depending on what minerals are involved,
they can offer us insight as to the processes
taking place within the earth during the magmas
origin. In order to study the crystals the rocks
are being cut into thin sections and with the use
of a petrographic microscope the crystals are
being characterized. This characterization is the
first step necessary to begin testing various
models that have been offered towards the origin
of lava flows at Torfajökull volcano complex.
Torfajökull Volcano complex
Map from National Land Survey of Iceland, 2001.
1 mm
Thin section of rock sample from Torfajökull
volcano complex. Shown in plane-polarized light
and cross-polarized light.
Taking notes at collection site.
Landmannalaugar. Camp at base of lava flow. Photo
by Freysteinn G. Jönsson
Acknowledgements I would like to thank the
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program
(UROP), which funded this project. I would also
like to thank Dr. Jeffery Swope, Dr. Kathy Licht,
Dr. Andrew Barth, Nicole Fohey and Kenny Brown.