Mount Tambora is a volcanic mountain located on the island of Sumbawa in Indonesia, notorious for its powerful eruption in 1815 causing a year without summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Teaching students about the facts surrounding Mount Tambora can be an engaging way to introduce them to natural disasters of historical importance.
Here are some essential points students must know about Mount Tambora:
Location and History
Mount Tambora is located on the island of Sumbawa, which is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. The mountain stands over 4,000 meters high and was formed more than 50,000 years ago as a result of a subduction zone. Tambora had been dormant for about 5,000 years until it suddenly began to show signs of activity in April 1815.
The Eruption and its Impact
The eruption of Mount Tambora in April 1815 was one of the most significant volcanic eruptions in recorded history, categorized as a VEI-7 or a “super colossal” eruption. The eruption lasted for three days, and the ash plume shot up to a height of 43 kilometers, where it caused the most significant eruptions to date.
The eruption of Mount Tambora discharged itself through another vent than the one present on the top of the mountain. The primary vent was choked-off, resulting in a catastrophic pyroclastic surge of hot gas, ash, and rock. The eruption of Mount Tambora claimed more than 90,000 lives.
Climate Change
The eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815 had far-reaching effects on global climate, causing a significant reduction in temperatures worldwide. The aerosols and ash particles that were ejected from the volcano ash plume were so numerous that they blocked out the sun’s rays. The phenomenon is known as “volcanic winter.” 1816 was eventually referred to as the “Year Without Summer,” as snow fell in New England in June, frost destroyed crops, and food shortages occurred.
In conclusion, teaching students about the facts surrounding Mount Tambora is an ideal way to enlighten them about the impact of natural disasters and their effect on the environment. The eruption of Mount Tambora reminds us of the importance of being prepared for natural catastrophes and appreciating the power of Mother Nature.
