Geochemists have found that Etna’s lavas are rich in magnesium and iron, elements typically found deep in the mantle, as well as potassium, which is more common in the crust. This unique composition suggests that Etna taps into both deep mantle sources and crustal materials, making it a valuable site for studying the Earth’s geology.

A huge plume of ash was sent into the air after Europe’s largest and most active volcano, Mount Etna, erupted.