VolcanoesVolcanoesWhat are the Hazards
of Volcanoes?
There are many hazards caused by volcanoes.
Erupting volcanoes can emit deadly gases,
lava flows,
and volcanic
ash. There can also be debris
avalanches, and landslides.
All of these things can cause a great deal of damage. Many people have
lost lives and property due to these hazards.
What
causes a volcano to Erupt?
An eruption starts in the Earth's
mantle as rocks melt. These melted rocks are referred to as magma.
Because the magma is not as heavy as the rocks around it, it rises above
them. As the magma continues to rise it is stored in magma chambers.
Eventually the magma reaches the top of the volcano and rises above the
surface. Now that the magma is above the crust it is referred to
as lava.
How can you predict
volcanoes?
Volcanoes often give a number
of signs before they erupt. Many times there are earthquakes caused
by the rising magma. You may also be able to see steam from the volcano.
Scientists are also able to use certain instrument s to measure the amount
of swelling in the ground.
