The word 'volcano' conjures up images of red and yellow bubbling lava and billowing plumes of smoke. The rocks that are molten and flowing at temperatures of a thousand or more degrees Celsius are more terrifying than amazing. However, there is a different and very attractive volcano on Earth. Kawah Ijen in Indonesia is a volcanic complex where blue flames rise from lava. Not only the blue flames but also the greenish-blue crater lake near the volcanic complex attract visitors. But the fact is that the attractive flames and water of Ijen are not at all healthy.
The Ijen volcanic complex is located in Java. It is 20 km wide. The highest peak of the complex is Gunung Merapi. It means 'volcano'. Mount Ijen is located to the west of Gunung Merapi. This volcano is part of the acidic crater lake. This lake is about one kilometer wide. It is the largest acidic crater lake in the world. The blue lava of Mount Ijen is due to the presence of sulfur. There are large deposits of sulfur in the area. The lava flows out through a gap in the Earth's crust caused by volcanic eruptions. The smoke from the molten lava is also blue. The blue flames are caused by the burning of sulfuric gas. The lava melts at temperatures up to 600 degrees Celsius. Part of the sulfuric gas condenses and re-liquefies, causing the lava to continue to burn. The burning process also creates a beautiful sight as it moves towards the lower surface. It feels like the lava is flowing downwards. The flames caused by contact with the air can rise up to 16 feet. Ijen is the largest blue lava field on Ejen. A
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