What is a Volcano?

    A volcano is an opening in Earth's crust that lava, volcanic ash, and gasses escape through. The volcanic eruptions from volcanoes are partly caused by pressure created from gases. This process is similar to how escaping gas pushes the cork out from a bottle of champagne. The volcano contains magma underneath it, which rises through cracks in Earth's crust when combined with these gases.

Where Do Volcanoes Form?

    Volcanoes mostly form on plate boundaries where tectonic plates move. The two boundaries that are sometimes connected with volcano formation are divergent boundaries and convergent boundaries. The other location where volcanoes can be formed is at hotspots.

How Can Scientists Detect Volcanic Eruptions?

    Volcanic Eruptions may seem to be random, but most volcanoes will have a warning before they erupt. When magma begins to rise in the volcano, it can create earthquakes that can be detected. Scientists use seismic monitors, leveling tools, and heat sensors to detect change in heat flow, areas of hot ground, and swelling of the ground, which can predict a volcanic eruption before it occurs.

How to be Safe When a Volcanic Eruption Occurs

    When scientists detect a volcanic eruption, make sure to leave the area to safety immediately by vehicle, keeping your doors and windows closed.

    If you are outside during the eruption, seek closest shelter indoors and move to an area that is breathable and has minimal smoke for safety.

How to be Safe When a Volcanic Eruption Occurs

Tectonic Plates are what makes up Earth's outer shell, they fit together almost like puzzle pieces and they move relative to each other.