What is a Volcano?

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from below the surface. When pressure builds up in the Earth, it can lead to eruptions, causing lava to flow and ash to spread.

Distribution of Volcanoes in the World

• Ring of Fire: Most volcanoes are found in the Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped area in the Pacific Ocean. This region is home to about 75% of the world’s active volcanoes, including famous ones like Mount St. Helens in the USA and Krakatoa in Indonesia.
• Mid-Atlantic Ridge: Another significant area is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where volcanic activity occurs as tectonic plates pull apart. This ridge runs down the center of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Hotspots: Some volcanoes, like Hawaii’s Mauna Loa, form over hotspots—areas where magma rises to the surface away from plate boundaries.

Summary

Understanding volcanoes and their distribution is crucial for predicting eruptions and mitigating risks in affected areas. For more detailed information