Computer-simulation models of scoria cone degradation

Long-term erosional modifications of the relatively simple morphology of scoria (`cinderʹ) cones are ideally suited for study by field and computer-simulation methods. A series of temporally-distinct cones in the San Francisco and Springerville volcanic fields of Arizona provides the foundation for documenting the degradational evolution of scoria cones in a semi-arid climate. Progressive changes due to erosion are illustrated by the systematic decrease with increasing age of various morphometric parameters, including scoria cone height, cone height/width ratio (Hco/Wco), crater depth/width ratio, and slope angle. For example, Holocene–latest Pleistocene cones in the San Francisco field have a mean Hco/Wco value of 0.178±0.041, a mean maximum slope angle of 29.7±4.2°, and a mean average slope angle of 26.4±7.3°, whereas the group of Pliocene cones have values of 0.077±0.024, 20.5±5.8°, and 8.7±2.7°, respectively. Comparative morphology of scoria cones is a potentially useful dating tool for mapping volcanic fields. er to better understand the degradational modifications of these volcanic landforms, we have developed a numerical approach to simulate the surficial processes responsible for the erosion of a typical scoria cone. The simulation algorithm can apply either a linear diffusion-equation model or a model with a nonlinear transport law. Using a finite-difference formulation, the simulation operates upon a three-dimensional scoria cone input as a matrix of elevation values. Utilizing both field and model results, the correlation between changing Hco/Wco value, cone age, and computer time step was expressed graphically to derive comprehensive values of the transport or diffusion coefficient (Df) for both volcanic fields. For the San Francisco volcanic field, Df had a calculated value of 21.4 m2/kyr for the linear model and 5.3 m/kyr for the nonlinear model, while for the Springerville volcanic field Df had a calculated value of 24.4 m2/kyr for the linear model and 6.3 m/kyr for the nonlinear model.