Volcanoes are faults on the surface of the earth's crust, through which magma subsequently emerges, turning into lava and accompanied by volcanic bombs. They are found on absolutely all continents, but on Earth there are places of their special accumulation. The latter is due to a variety of geologically active processes. All volcanoes, depending on their location and activity, are divided into several main categories: terrestrial, subglacial and underwater, extinct, dormant and active.
The science that studies them is called volcanology. This is an official discipline recognized around the world.
Volcanic eruptions, as a rule, occur with a certain regularity. At the same time, a large amount of volcanic gases and ash are emitted into the atmosphere. Several hundred years ago, people believed that these processes were caused by the wrath of the gods. At present, mankind knows that the eruption is natural, and the reasons for the eruption of volcanoes lie in the deep layers of the earth, where liquid hot magma accumulates. In some places, it gradually begins to rise along the vents of volcanoes to the surface. Ordinary magma passes through various gas fumes quite easily, and therefore lava comes out relatively calmly. It all looks as if it spills out.
Acidic magma, which is denser in structure, retains gas vapor for much longer, resulting in high pressure formation, and the eruption of volcanoes occurs in the form of a large explosion. This phenomenon can also be triggered by the movement of tectonic plates and earthquakes.
The eruption of terrestrial volcanoes causes the formation of deadly pyroclastic flows of various thicknesses. They consist of hot gas and ash and rush along the slopes with great speed. In addition, toxic substances and hot lava flows to the surface are released into the atmosphere. The consequences of the eruption of underwater volcanoes are directly related to the formation of deadly waves and tsunamis. Faults related to subglacial, as a result of their major eruption, depending on a particular geological and geographical location, can lead to the formation of landslides, powerful mudflows and the collapse of the glaciers themselves. Volcanic eruptions are usually associated with the loss of ground cover, air pollution, pollution of water bodies, lakes, rivers, and hence drinking water.
Separately, it is worth noting the malfunctioning of various infrastructures, the destruction of residential buildings and non-residential utility rooms, hunger and the spread of various infections.
The consequences of the eruption of powerful volcanoes have a direct impact on climate change and can trigger the onset of the so-called volcanic winter. The ash and gases generated during the explosion will reach the atmospheric layer and, like a coverlet, will completely cover the Earth. The rays of the sun will cease to penetrate, and sulfuric acid in the form of precipitation will fall to the surface. The effect resulting from such processes will be similar to the consequences of a nuclear winter. Eruptions of this kind are quite rare, and today scientists are doing everything possible to reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.
