Physical properties of magmas and their evolution during storage, transport, eruption and emplacement

Magma has played an important role in the Earth’s evolution through volcanic and magmatic activity, including the formation of the crust and atmosphere. Magma storage, transport, eruption and emplacement can be quantitatively evaluated based on the understanding and knowledge of magma physical properties. In this chapter, the rheology, permeability and thermodynamic properties of magma are reviewed in the context of magma storage, transport and emplacement. Magma physical properties evolve due to changing temperature, pressure, crystallinity and other chemical, physical and thermal factors, which in turn, influence storage, transport and emplacement processes. The resulting feedbacks can strongly affect volcanic and magmatic activity.