Chapter 6: Volcanoes and Other Mountains

Practice flashcards for reviewing key terms and concepts related to volcanoes and volcanic activity.

Volcano

A mountain constructed by the eruption of molten rock from Earth’s interior.

Plate Tectonics

The theory explaining the movement of the Earth's plates and their interactions, which can lead to volcanic activity.

Pyroclastic Flows

Fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter that flow down the sides of a volcano during an eruption.

Caldera

A large volcanic depression, much larger than a crater, formed when a magma chamber empties and the volcano collapses.

Magma Viscosity

The measure of a magma's resistance to flow, influenced by its temperature, composition, and gas content.

Lava Flows

Molten rock that moves over the ground after an eruption.

Shield Volcano

A broad, dome-shaped volcano formed by the lateral flow of low-viscosity basaltic lava.

Stratovolcano

A large, cone-shaped volcano with steep slopes composed of alternating layers of lava, tephra, and debris.

Lahar

A mudflow formed when volcanic debris mixes with water, often confined to stream channels.

Tephra

Particles blasted into the air by a volcanic eruption, including volcanic ash and bombs.

Volcanic Gases

Gases expelled during a volcanic eruption, which can be harmful and alter the atmosphere.

Volcanic Effects on Climate

The ability of volcanic eruptions to impact climate by blocking sunlight and causing atmospheric cooling.