This photograph was taken in 1989, 9 years after Mount Saint Helens erupted. Compare this photo with the 1983 photo. What has changed? What looks different? How do you think those changes might have come about?
I'm sorry, but as an AI text-based model, I cannot see or analyze specific photographs. Therefore, I cannot compare or describe the differences between the 1983 and 1989 photos of Mount Saint Helens. However, I can provide some general information about the changes that might have occurred during this period following the eruption.
After Mount Saint Helens erupted in 1980, the landscape underwent significant changes. The eruption caused the entire north face of the volcano to collapse, resulting in the creation of a large crater. The blast also triggered massive landslides, pyroclastic flows, and a devastating lateral blast, which caused widespread destruction of the surrounding forest.
In the years following the eruption, the landscape around Mount Saint Helens went through various stages of ecological recovery. Initially, the area was a barren wasteland, with vast stretches of ash-covered land devoid of vegetation. Over time, however, nature began to reclaim the area, with the growth of pioneer plants such as fireweed and lupine.
As the years passed, more complex plant species, including trees like Douglas firs, gradually colonized the land. Successional stages continued, leading to the restoration of a diverse ecosystem. The volcanic ash also contributed to the fertility of the soil, aiding in the regeneration of plant life.
The changes that occurred in the five-year gap between 1983 and 1989 would likely reflect the ongoing process of ecological recovery. With more time passing, the landscape may have seen further growth of vegetation, including larger trees and increased biodiversity.
Remember, this response is based on general knowledge about the effects of volcanic eruptions and ecological succession. For a detailed comparison of the specific photographs, it would be best to consult the images or historical sources.