The Uran-Togoo volcanic area in central Mongolia preserves well-developed monogenetic volcanic landforms, providing an excellent natural laboratory for investigating scoria cone evolution and structural controls. This study integrates morphometric, geochemical, and cosmogenic Cl-36 exposure dating analyses to evaluate cone morphology, vent distribution, and post-eruptive surface evolution within the Orkhon-Selenge Volcanic Belt (OSVB). The scoria cones exhibit steep slopes, nearly circular cone geometries, and limited erosional modification, indicating relatively well-preserved geomorphic surfaces. Cone alignments and vent distributions closely correspond to regional fault systems, demonstrating that tectonic structures exerted a primary control on magma ascent and vent emplacement. Whole-rock geochemical analyses indicate alkaline basaltic to basanitic compositions typical of intraplate volcanism. Cosmogenic Cl-36 exposure ages (similar to 42-61 ka) primarily record late Pleistocene surface stabilization rather than the timing of volcanic eruptions. Variations in exposure ages likely reflect differences in post-eruptive erosion, surface modification, and local geomorphic processes. The discrepancy between published radiometric ages and cosmogenic exposure ages highlights the importance of distinguishing eruptive chronology from post-eruptive landscape evolution. Overall, our results provide new insights into the geomorphic evolution of monogenetic scoria cones and the role of tectonic structures in controlling intraplate volcanism in central Mongolia.
Every year disasters cause significant economic and human losses globally, and Costa Rica is no exception to this growing reality. The country experiences a variety of hazards from natural and anthropogenic origins. The most common natural hazards are geophysical (volcanic and seismic) and hydrometeorological (e.g. floods, landslides, droughts, soil erosion, and coastal erosion). This research includes a national disasters profile, revealing that geophysical disasters are the deadliest, while hydrometeorological disasters cause the most economic damage and affect the most people. Moreover, a statistical analysis shows that population and social development are key predictors of disaster frequency. Furthermore, an extensive literature review provides comprehensive insights into both natural and anthropogenic hazards in Costa Rica from a geographic perspective that explains its occurrence and distribution. Additionally, it provides recommendations and possible solutions at different scales to effectively address and mitigate these disaster risks in the country based on geographic analysis.
