1. Volcanic Gases:
* Water vapor: The most abundant gas released, as water is a major component in wet basalt.
* Carbon dioxide: Basalt can contain some dissolved carbon dioxide.
* Sulfur dioxide: A significant contributor to volcanic smog and acid rain.
* Hydrogen sulfide: A toxic gas with a strong rotten egg smell.
* Other gases: In smaller amounts, gases like chlorine, fluorine, and helium can be released.
2. Magma:
* More fluid magma: The presence of water lowers the melting temperature of basalt, resulting in a more fluid magma.
* Increased volatile content: The water and other gases dissolved in the magma can cause explosive eruptions.
* Different mineral composition: The presence of water can influence the crystallization of minerals in the magma.
3. Volcanic Products:
* Lava flows: Fluid basaltic magma can erupt as lava flows, often with low viscosity.
* Pyroclastic flows: If the magma contains a high amount of dissolved gases, it can erupt explosively, creating pyroclastic flows, which are fast-moving currents of hot gas and rock fragments.
* Ash plumes: Explosive eruptions can produce large ash plumes, which can travel long distances and impact the atmosphere.
4. Alteration of Basalt:
* Hydrothermal alteration: The interaction of hot water with basalt can lead to changes in the rock's mineralogy and chemistry.
* Formation of new minerals: Minerals like zeolites and clays can form during hydrothermal alteration.
In summary, melting of wet basalt is a complex process that can produce a range of volcanic products, including gases, magma, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and ash plumes. The specific products depend on the amount of water present, the depth of melting, and other factors.
