Pumice is an unusual type of volcanic ejecta.
Pumice is formed when silica magma rich in gas is ejected and cooled quickly. Its presence indicates an explosive eruption.
The resultant solid has a low density due to the presence of numerous gas cavities.
Features of pumice:
(1) it floats and can form "rafts" which can disperse a range of biological materials
(2) it has a high surface area to weight ratio
(3) a given volume weighs significantly less than a volume of solid ejecta
Because of the high surface area it can be used to adsorb a variety of substances, especially if pretreated.
Inhalation of volcanic dust generated by the type of eruption causing pumice may be associated with silica-related lung disease.
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine, Critical Care