Geochemical and Morphometric Characterization of Mt. Ronggo (Scoria Cone), East Java, Indonesia: Insights into Monogenetic Volcanism and Edifice Instability

Muhammad Andriansyah Gurusinga; Yusuf Bagaskoro; Dzikru Aminulloh; Septyo Uji Pratomo; Peter Pratistha Utama; Andhika Nugraha

doi:10.56099/ophi.v8i1.p1-12

Authors

Muhammad Andriansyah Gurusinga UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1880-7895
Yusuf Bagaskoro Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia
Dzikru Aminulloh UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Septyo Uji Pratomo UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Peter Pratistha Utama UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Andhika Nugraha Akita University, Japan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56099/ophi.v8i1.p1-12

Keywords:

monogenetic volcano, scoria cone, sector collapse, east java

Abstract

Mt. Ronggo is a Quaternary monogenetic scoria cone on the western flank of the Mt. Semeru volcanic complex, East Java. This study integrates whole-rock geochemistry (XRF), field stratigraphy, and morphometric reconstruction to delineate its eruptive evolution and structural instability. Geochemical analysis reveals predominantly basaltic products (SiO₂ ≈ 46–52 wt%) with significant compositional overlap with regional calc-alkaline trends of the Tengger-Bromo, Semeru, and Lamongan systems, suggesting the vent taps a shared or similar transcrustal mush reservoir. The field stratigraphic record captures an eruptive transition, evidenced by a pyroclastic density current (PDC) deposit and preserved charcoal fragments suitable for future radiocarbon dating. Morphometric modeling of the original cone (V ≈ 126.6 × 10⁶ m³) identifies a 120° sector collapse involving 20.4 × 10⁶ m³ of material. Mass balance calculations show the Western Hill remnant accounts for only 23.7% of the failed mass. This volume discrepancy indicates slope failure was governed by a pre-existing NW-SE structural weak zone that compromised the western flank, determining the collapse azimuth and facilitating distal dispersal or burial of the remaining 76.3% of material. These results highlight the critical role of structural heritage in controlling lateral instability of monogenetic volcanoes in the Java Volcanic Arc.

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