About This Simulation
This simulator models basaltic lava flows on Mount Etna's flank using a 2D particle physics engine (Matter.js). Each particle represents a lava parcel whose behavior emerges from:
- Viscosity — internal resistance to flow. Low values (0.1–1 Pa·s) produce fluid pāhoehoe-like flows; high values (5–10 Pa·s) yield sluggish ʻaʻā-like lobes.
- Slope angle — gravitational driving force. Etna's flanks average 25–35° near the summit vents.
- Eruption rate — mass flux at the vent. Higher rates build levees and channelize flow.
Particles cool radiatively over time (color shift hot→warm→cool→solid). Solidified particles become static obstacles, building natural levees that channel subsequent flow — a key mechanism in real lava flow advance.
Source: Reuters World News podcast, Aug 15 2026 — Mount Etna erupted in a fiery display in Sicily, spewing molten lava and ash.