Volcanology


Feature Writer Articles in Volcanology

Antarctica's Mount Erebus Volcano
Antarctica is most well-known for its glaciers and penguins, but this snow-covered continent is very much alive with geothermal and volcanic activity.
Volcano Fields of the United States
Where the crust is stretched thin by tectonic activity, magma is able to rise through the surface. In the Western interior of the U.S., this has led to volcanoes.
Subduction Zone Volcanoes of the United States
Subduction zones are one of the tectonic zones of the U.S. that produce volcanic activity. The Cascades Volcano Range and the Aleutian Island Volcano Arc are examples.
The Carbonate Volcano of Africa
The vast majority of volcanoes erupt silica based magma, but this African volcano erupts magma that is carbonate based, making it very unique.
Origins of Volcanism
Volcanism requires both a source of heat and something to melt. The planet provides the material for melting and the heat comes from a variety of sources.
The Types of Volcanoes
The shapes and sizes of volcanoes are dependent on how frequently they erupt as well as the style of eruption.
Satellite Images of Mt. Redoubt Volcano Eruption
The new eruption of Mt. Redoubt volcano was anticipated for weeks and started with an increase in seismic activity. Satellite images show large volcanic ash clouds.
Types of Volcanic Eruptions
The types of eruptions get their names from volcanoes which have been historically recorded as exhibiting certain types of activities.
Earthquake Swarm at Yellowstone National Park
Although one of the most beautiful places in the world, Yellowstone has a violent geologic record. New activity recorded by seismographs has the attention of geologists.
The Volcano Explosivity Index
The explosivity of a volcanic eruption is characterized by the amount of material ejected, ash column height and impact of eruptions.
The Five Deadliest Volcanic Eruptions
The eruptions of Tambora, Krakatau, Mont Pelee, Nevado del Ruiz and Unzen were the deadliest volcanic eruptions in recorded history.
Volcanoes are Natural Polluters
Volcanoes have the ability to change Earth's atmosphere. Current eruptions are causing respiratory hazards and past eruptions have caused climate change.
Satellite Detects Chaiten Eruption
The ash being emitted by the May 2008 eruption of Chaiten Volcano is detected using earth observing satellites
Studying Volcanoes With Satellites
Volcanoes can be dangerous to study. Luckily for volcanologists, the vast array of satellites orbiting our planet can provide valuable information from a safe distance.


Contributing Articles in Volcanology

Volcanic Wonder in the South Pacific
Although not the only active volcano in New Zealand, White Island is easy to spot because it constantly billows steam
Geothermal Energy Under Newberry Volcano, Oregon
In today's demand for alternative energy, the potential for geothermal electricity at Newberry Volcano seems promising, but will a viable hydrothermal source be found?
The Geology of Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is one of Oregon's natural wonders. With a unique geological history, and active hydrothermal vents, could this volcano still be a force in the future?
Is Japan Really a Volcanic Island Arc?
Japan is known for beautiful strato-volcanoes and large caldera volcanoes. These are recent additions to a geological base of ocean-derived rocks and sediments.
Volcano Krakatoa becoming Active
Recent rumblings of a volcano in Indonesia have scientists keeping a closer eye on the mountain that once caused a monster eruption.
Types of Volcanic Hazards
Geologists have identified several types of volcanic hazards. During an eruption, many of these processes can happen at once.
Giant's Causeway, Basalt, and Cornstarch
Lowly cornstarch, plus the ingenuity of a physicist, a mathematician, and a graduate student, find the link between the drying time of basalt and its column-height.
Birth of Volcanic Island Caught on Camera
The crew of the yacht Maiken are the first to discover the birthing of a volcanic isle. Amazing Photographs of this wonder of Mother Earth.
Hibashi Lava Tube, Saudi Arabia
Hibashi Lava Tube is rich in rare cave minerals and contains a thick layer of dust so fine that the cave is now a working model for exploring the lava tubes of Mars.
Exploring Lava Tubes
Lava tubes are volcanic caves formed in molten rock. They can contain spectacular formations, bones, artifacts, live animals, icicles and more.
The Volcano at Paricutin
In 1943, scientists were stunned to be able to witness the birth of a brand new volcano in Mexico, arising out of nowhere in the middle of a field.
Scientific Classification of Lava
Lava is a very interesting substance, but most people don't realize that it can come in many very interesting varieties, differing in chemistry and in temperature.
Fumaroles: A Sign of Volcanism
Often less captivating than erupting geysers and colorful hot springs, fumaroles are fascinating signs of volcanism at work.
Hot Springs & Mudpots
Calming, warm waters of hot springs entice tourists to resorts. Bubbling mudpots and colorful hot springs are special volcanic features located around the globe.
Geysers: Rare Geologic Wonders
Millions of visitors travel to Yellowstone National Park and Iceland to watch geysers. Here is look at the science behind them.