Volcanoes - How They Are Formed And How They Erupt

Volcanoes - How They Are Formed And How They Erupt Volcano is a part of scientific study and science is always interesting. Especially more so when it has to do with natural phenomena. For instance, how earthquakes happen, how are volcanoes formed, what are they made of etc. This is something curious and intriguing and a lot of fun to learn as it is something that happens in real life! So, what are volcanoes made of and why. How do they erupt is the topic of discussion here; read on to learn more. How are volcanoes formed? The earth as we all know has a lot of layers underneath and one of its layers is called the mantle. The mantle is a layer that lies between the molten iron core. It has a thin crusty surface. The mantle is essentially formed of rocks and these rocks are always in slow motion. These rocks aka the tectonic plates move to and fro. They sometimes sink into the core and then this sort of a sinking phenomenon happens. The plates become very hot so much so that the rock melts. This molten rock or the magma moves forward towards the surface of the earth. This widens the cracks and this molten material is what is known as the lava. As layers of lava build up, voila, a volcano is formed. There are many different kinds of lava flows Yes! This is true and in fact this is often the very topic that many kids take up for their science projects. Volcanoes are a fascinating phenomenon. Many kids seek the help of online science tutors to work on interesting projects related to them (for their science fairs and assignments of course!). Now, before getting back to the kinds of lava there are, we need to understand how volcanoes erupt. How do volcanoes erupt? Due to pressure build up, magma overflows. The volcano erupts into a lava flow on the surface of the earth. With layers and layers of magma piling up and pushing down due to gravity. The gasses inside push the magma up and this causes the eruption of the volcano (when the pressure build up is high enough). Pyroclastic eruptions These happen when there is dissolution of gases and water in the magma. When the gas pressure is more, the magma disintegrates into rocks, lava and this sort of an eruption is explosive in nature. Sheet Lava With up to a thickness of anywhere from 10-30 metres, this kind of lava flow is very fast and fill lower areas like a blanker or a sheet. The other kinds are Aa lava, Block lavas and Pahoehoe. Volcanoes are dormant for thousands of years together and the science behind their formation and eruption has fascinated many for years! Whether it is as part of science homework help online or science assignment help, students continue to seek information about this natural phenomenon. We hope this blog sheds some info about volcanoes and how they are formed and how they erupt. Watch this space for more such interesting blogs.