What is cinder and ash?

Cinder and ash are both products of volcanic eruptions. Cinder, also known as scoria, is a type of volcanic rock that is formed when lava is explosively ejected from a volcano. It is porous and lightweight, and is commonly used in construction as an aggregate material in concrete and road building.

Ash, on the other hand, is the fine powder-like material that is released into the atmosphere during a volcanic eruption. It is made up of tiny particles of volcanic glass, rock fragments, and minerals, and can travel long distances depending on wind patterns. When ash falls back to the ground it can disrupt transportation, agriculture, and cause respiratory problems.

Both cinder and ash can have beneficial effects on soil fertility. As these materials break down and weather over time, they release nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, which can help promote plant growth. However, the acidic nature of some volcanic ash can also alter soil pH levels, which can have negative impacts on crops and native vegetation.