Experimental verification for self-organization process on the spatial distribution and edifice size of rootless cone

We discuss the decision factor of the spatial distribution of rootless eruption, continuous explosions caused by interactions between lava and water. Signs of these eruptions are found on both Earth and Mars, and their spatial distribution is believed to be self-organized due to the scramble for available volatile substances, such as water. An analog experiment of rootless eruptions was conducted to verify this self-organization process using syrup and baking soda. This study focused on “failed conduits” disturbed by surrounding conduits and could not form stable paths to the surface. Through the experiments, we found that the self-organization process is driven by the competition for both available volatile substances and conduits. Candidates of such failed conduits could be found in nature where high-temperature lava and shallow groundwater were met. The role of the conduit-merge effect is deemed important in determining the spatial distribution pattern and edifice size of rootless cones on Earth and other planetary bodies. • We discuss the decision factor of the spatial distribution of rootless eruption, continuous explosions caused by interactions between lava and water. • An analog experiment of rootless eruptions was conducted to verify this self-organization process using syrup and baking soda. • This study focused on “failed conduits” disturbed by surrounding conduits and could not form stable paths to the surface. • Through the experiments, we found that the self-organization process is driven by the competition for both available volatile substances and conduits. • The conduit merging is important in determining the spatial distribution pattern and edifice size of rootless cones.