What are the characteristics and effects of a pyroclastic flow?

Answer 1

A pyroclastic flowFlows that contain high-density mixtures of hot, dry rock fragments and hot gases. sort of spans the volcanic spectrum from pyroclastic material to a lava flow. They flow down the volcano's side at tremendous speeds. One of the most characteristic features of a pyroclastic flow is the "welding" of pyroclastic fragments. These fragments actually are smashed down or compacted because of the high heat within the flows.

Pyroclastic flows can result from really explosive eruptions, or they may occur when a thick lava flow collapses down a steep slope. A pyroclastic flow is extremely dangerous. These flows can contain fragments ranging in size from ash to boulders, and they can move at speeds typically greater than 80 kilometers per hour. And if the tremendous speed of these flows is not enough to contemplate, consider this: The temperatures of rocks and gas inside pyroclastic flows is typically between 200°C and 700°C. Yowsa! No wonder pyroclastic flows have caused tremendous devastation throughout recorded history. (from apex)