Volcanoes are openings in the planet's crust that release magma, gases, and rock fragments, shaping landscapes and influencing planetary evolution.

Volcanoes primarily form where tectonic plates diverge, converge, or above mantle plumes (hotspots), playing a key role in earth processes.

Magma types vary by silica content affecting viscosity and eruption style: basaltic (effusive), andesitic, and rhyolitic (explosive).

Volcano morphology reflects magma type and eruption history. Types include shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes, and calderas.

Hazards include lava flows, ash fall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars. These can cause significant destruction and loss of life.

Historic eruptions like Tambora 1815 and Pinatubo 1991 highlight varied impacts, from climatic cooling to widespread destruction.

Monitoring includes seismic activity analysis, ground deformation, and gas emissions to forecast eruptions and mitigate risks.

Volcanoes influence climate through CO₂ emissions and aerosols. Large eruptions can cause short-term cooling and long-term carbon cycle impacts.

Volcanism is present on other planets and moons, such as Io’s sulfur volcanism and Olympus Mons on Mars, indicating diverse planetary processes.

Teaching the interaction between magma, gas, and tectonics bridges fundamental science with real-world volcanic hazards and mitigation strategies.