A volcanic plume is a column of volcanic gases, ash, and aerosols emitted during an eruption, rising into the atmosphere and often spreading over large areas. Volcanic plumes are significant in volcanology and atmospheric science for their impact on air travel, climate, and the distribution of volcanic ash.
Reference: Sparks, R. S. J., & Carey, S. N. (1991). “Pyroclastic Flows and Explosive Volcanism.” Geological Society of London Special Publication, 145(1), 1-8.