Mechanisms generating terrestrial volcanic spherules

Characterize and quantify the full set of mechanisms responsible for generating terrestrial volcanic spherules, including but not limited to low-viscosity magma processes and hydrovolcanism, to resolve current uncertainties in their formation and diagnostic features.

Background

The paper considers terrestrial volcanism among possible sources for differentiated spherules, noting mechanisms such as low-viscosity magmas and hydrovolcanism. However, the authors explicitly state that volcanic spherules are understudied and that the full extent of mechanisms involved in their generation remains unclear.

A comprehensive mechanistic understanding would aid in distinguishing volcanic spherules from meteoritic ablation and airburst products, and improve diagnostic criteria for origin attribution based on morphology and chemistry (e.g., Mn behavior, magnetite rims, alkali abundances).