A geologist is studying a volcanic eruption that released 12,000 tons of ash into the atmosphere. If 25% of the ash settled within the first hour and 15% of the remaining ash settled in the next two hours, how many tons of ash remained airborne after five hours?

Mon, 04 May 2026 21:04:32 +0000

**A geologist is studying a volcanic eruption that released 12,000 tons of ash into the atmosphere. If 25% of the ash settled within the first hour and 15% of the remaining ash settled in the next two hours, how many tons of ash remained airborne after five hours?** Recent debates in climate science and disaster preparedness highlight shifting ash dispersion patterns from intense eruptions—new analysis from a leading geologist reveals critical details about how volcanic ash behaves after major events. With rising interest in solar impacts, air quality, and aviation safety, understanding ash behavior is more relevant than ever. This eruption, totaling 12,000 tons of ash, shows how stabilization unfolds in the hours after release. According to field data, 25% of the airborne ash settled within the first hour, marking rapid gravitational deposition. That leaves 75% still suspended. Over the next two hours, an additional 15% of what remained fell out—this step reflects wind-driven redistribution across vast distances. Together, these processes reduce airborne volumes gradually but predictably. Calculating the ash that remains:
After the first hour: 25% settled ⇒ 75% remains = 0.75 × 12,000 = 9,000 tons
After two more hours (15% of remaining settled): 15% of 9,000 = 1,350 tons settled ⇒ 9,000 – 1,350 = 7,650 tons still airborne
This leaves 7,650 tons suspended five hours post-eruption—still significant, yet no longer densely concentrated.