Going Beyond the Summit: The Fascinating Story of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa’s Record-Setting Height
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are two of the most impressive volcanic mountains in the world. But what makes them truly remarkable is their record-setting height. In fact, Mauna Kea, with a total height of over 33,476 feet (10,203 meters), is considered the tallest mountain on Earth, surpassing Mount Everest, the highest peak on the planet.
But how can this be? And what’s the story behind these two majestic mountains?
The Formation of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa
Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are shield volcanoes, formed as a result of the movement of tectonic plates. Mauna Kea is estimated to have formed around 400,000 years ago, while Mauna Loa is believed to have erupted as recently as 1984.
The two volcanoes are connected by a single mountain range, with Mauna Kea’s summit being slightly lower than Mauna Loa’s. However, Mauna Kea’s base is much wider and covers a larger area, making it the tallest mountain when measured from its base to its summit.
The Science Behind Mauna Kea’s Record Height
So, why is Mauna Kea considered the tallest mountain? The answer lies in the way scientists measure mountains. Most people measure mountains from their summit to their base, which would put Mount Everest at around 29,000 feet (8,848 meters) tall. However, Mauna Kea’s base is located under over 2 miles (3 kilometers) of ocean, making its total height significantly higher.
Mauna Kea’s record height is calculated by measuring the distance from its base to its summit, which is around 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) tall. When combined with the distance from the ocean floor to its base, the total height reaches an astonishing 33,476 feet (10,203 meters).
The Impact on Climate and Astronomy
Mauna Kea’s record height has a significant impact on the climate and astronomy. The mountain’s extreme height creates a unique microclimate, with temperatures and humidity levels that are significantly different from the surrounding area.
Additionally, Mauna Kea’s summit is one of the driest places on Earth, making it an ideal location for astronomy. The clear and dry atmosphere allows for some of the world’s most advanced telescopes to be located at the summit, enabling scientists to study the universe with unparalleled precision.
Image
A stunning image of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with the Mauna Kea Observatory in the background.
[Image: Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, Credit: NASA]
FAQs
Q: How tall is Mauna Kea compared to Mount Everest?
A: Mauna Kea is over 33,476 feet (10,203 meters) tall, while Mount Everest is around 29,000 feet (8,848 meters) tall.
Q: Why is Mauna Kea’s height measured from its base to the ocean floor?
A: Because Mauna Kea’s base is located under over 2 miles (3 kilometers) of ocean, the total height of the mountain is significantly higher when measured from its base to its summit.
Q: What makes Mauna Kea’s summit an ideal location for astronomy?
A: The clear and dry atmosphere at Mauna Kea’s summit makes it an ideal location for astronomy, allowing scientists to study the universe with unparalleled precision.
Q: Are Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa still active volcanoes?
A: Mauna Loa is still an active volcano, with the last eruption occurring in 1984. Mauna Kea is considered dormant, but not extinct.
Q: Can I visit Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa?
A: Yes, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are accessible for visitors. However, please note that Mauna Kea’s summit is closed to the public due to its remote location and fragile environment.
By understanding the fascinating story of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, we gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that surround us. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll uncover even more secrets about these two incredible volcanoes!
