How Volcanoes Work

Front

What caused the formation of the Hawaiian Islands?

Back

The Hawaiian Islands were formed by volcanic activity over a hot spot in the Earth's mantle.

Front

What are hot spots in geology?

Back

Hot spots are locations where magma from deep within the mantle rises to the surface, creating volcanoes.

Front

What is magma?

Back

Magma is molten rock located beneath the Earth's surface.

Front

What factors affect the flow of magma down a volcano?

Back

The flow of magma depends on its viscosity and the amount of dissolved gases it contains.

Front

What is viscosity in the context of magma?

Back

Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of a fluid, affecting how easily magma can move.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper mantle.

Front

What type of rock primarily makes up the ocean floor?

Back

The ocean floor is primarily made up of igneous rock, formed from cooled magma.

Front

What are the signs that a sleeping volcano may awaken?

Back

Signs include tremors, earthquakes, and small seismic activities.

Front

What is an earthquake?

Back

An earthquake is the shaking of the Earth's surface caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere.

Front

What is the difference between magma and lava?

Back

Magma is molten rock beneath the Earth's surface, while lava is magma that has reached the surface.