Final answer:
Volcanic eruptions are categorized by their eruption style: explosive eruptions involve violent ejections, effusive eruptions produce gentle lava flows, phreatomagmatic eruptions are caused by magma-water interactions, and submarine eruptions occur underwater.
Step-by-step explanation:
When categorizing volcanic eruptions, it is important to recognize the differences in eruption styles and their associated hazards. An explosive eruption is characterized by the violent ejection of magma, gases, and rocks from a volcano, often forming a towering column of tephra and pyroclastic flows. In contrast, an effusive eruption is typified by the gentle flow of lava onto the ground, creating broad lava plains, as seen with the volcanic eruptions in Hawaii.
A phreatomagmatic eruption occurs when magma interacts with water, creating steam explosions that fragment the magma and produce fine ash. Lastly, a submarine eruption takes place beneath the ocean, and can either be explosive or effusive, depending on the depth and the water's pressure on the magma.
Understanding these different types of volcanic eruptions helps us to assess the potential hazards associated with them and the impact they may have on human life and global climate.