Mt. St. Helens Quick Check

Front

What date did the main eruption of Mt. St. Helens occur?

Back

May 18, 1980

Front

What causes the explosive force in volcanoes?

Back

The explosive force comes from the gas that gives pressure to magma.

Front

In which state is Mt. St. Helens located?

Back

Washington state

Front

Did scientists expect life to recover quickly after the Mt. St. Helens eruption?

Back

No, scientists were shocked that organisms and plants recovered in small steps after the eruption.

Front

How did salamanders survive after the eruption of Mt. St. Helens?

Back

Salamanders were able to survive because of the tunnels the pocket gophers created.

Front

What type of volcano is Mt. St. Helens?

Back

Mt. St. Helens is a stratovolcano.

Front

What is the significance of the eruption of Mt. St. Helens in 1980?

Back

It was one of the most significant volcanic eruptions in U.S. history, causing widespread destruction and changing the landscape.

Front

What role do gases play in volcanic eruptions?

Back

Gases build up pressure in magma, leading to explosive eruptions.

Front

What is the ecological impact of volcanic eruptions like Mt. St. Helens?

Back

Volcanic eruptions can lead to both destruction and eventual ecological recovery, as seen with the return of life after the eruption.

Front

What is a lahar?

Back

A lahar is a destructive mudflow on the slopes of a volcano, often caused by volcanic activity.