Rumbleometer Temperature Data
plot of temperature data The rescued rumbleometer was in remarkably good condition. Only the yellow plastic "hard-hats" that protect the glass ball flotation were melted in a few spots where they had come in contact with the lava.
Even though the lava was erupted at a temperature of about 1200°C (~2200°F), the instrument was kept relatively cool because it was bathed in frigid seawater (2°C) which dissipated most of that heat. Also, the lava quickly forms a solid crust over its molten surface, which greatly insulates the heat below. The temperature sensor on board the rumbleometer only recorded a 4°C increase in temperature during the eruption! Amazing!
Version 2.0 first pageprevious pagenext pagelast pagespacer imageeducation hometable of contents page 30 of 39