Volcanoes note
π Volcanoes – Geography Notes
π What is a Volcano?
A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust through which molten rock, ash, and gases escape.
π₯ Types of Volcanoes
-
Active Volcano
- Erupts frequently (e.g., Mount Etna, Italy)
-
Dormant Volcano
- Has not erupted in recent history but may erupt again (e.g., Mount Fuji, Japan)
-
Extinct Volcano
- Has not erupted for thousands of years and is unlikely to erupt again (e.g., Arthur's Seat, Scotland)
π Types of Volcanic Eruptions
- Effusive Eruption – Lava flows out gently (e.g., Hawaiian volcanoes)
- Explosive Eruption – Violent, with ash and gas clouds (e.g., Mount Vesuvius)
π» Types of Volcanoes by Shape
Type | Characteristics | Example |
---|---|---|
Shield Volcano | Broad, gentle slopes, low-viscosity lava | Mauna Loa, Hawaii |
Composite (Strato) | Steep, explosive, layers of ash & lava | Mount St. Helens, USA |
Cinder Cone | Small, steep, made of volcanic debris | ParΓcutin, Mexico |
Lava Dome | Steep-sided dome from thick lava | Mount St. Helens (inside crater) |
π Distribution of Volcanoes
- Mostly found along tectonic plate boundaries
- Notable zones:
- Ring of Fire (Pacific Ocean)
- Mid-Atlantic Ridge
- Mediterranean Belt
⚠️ Effects of Volcanic Eruptions
Positive Effects:
- Fertile soil
- Geothermal energy
- Creation of new land
Negative Effects:
- Loss of life and property
- Air traffic disruption (ash clouds)
- Climate effects (global cooling from ash)
π‘️ Safety & Prediction
- Use of seismographs, gas sensors, and satellites to predict eruptions
- Evacuation plans and hazard maps reduce risks
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