Volcanoes

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to volcanoes, their types, structures, impacts, and related geological concepts.

Intrusive Volcanism

When magma intrudes into Earth's crust and cools below the surface.

Extrusive Volcanism

When lava erupts onto Earth's surface.

Active Volcano

A volcano that erupts fairly regularly along active plate boundaries.

Dormant Volcano

A volcano that has not erupted for many years but is not considered extinct.

Extinct Volcano

A volcano that is not expected to erupt again.

Cinder Cone

A steep-sided volcano made of cinders and ash, associated with violent eruptions.

Shield Volcano

A gently-sloping volcano made up of very fluid lava.

Lava Dome

A small mass of thick, viscous lava that solidifies close to the vent to form a dome shape.

Composite Volcano

A volcano made of alternating layers of ash, cinders, and lava.

Magma Chamber

The large underground reservoir of molten rock within Earth's crust.

Crater

A saucer-shaped area at the summit of a volcano from which materials are ejected.

Volcanic Bombs

Solidified blobs of lava that can be ejected during a volcanic eruption.

Geothermal Electricity

Electricity generated using heat from underground.

Negative Impacts of Volcanoes

Lava can destroy habitats, and ash can asphyxiate people and animals.

Positive Impacts of Volcanoes

Ash can fertilize soil, contributing to agricultural productivity.