Tectonic Hazards, 2.1- Distribution of Earthquakes and Volcanoes Flashcards
Why is there a pattern of earthquakes?
An earthquake is a sudden and violent period of ground shaking. It is most commonly caused by a sudden movement of rocks within the Earth’s Crust. This occurs mainly at the margins of tectonic plates where plates are moving and enormous pressures build up and are released.
Where do Volcanoes Happen?
A volcano is a large and often conical-shaped landform usually formed over a long period of time by a series of eruptions. Like earthquakes, the majority of volcanoes occur in long belts that follow the plate margins, for example the around the edge of the Pacific Ocean.
Why is there a pattern of Volcanoes
Volcanoes are fed by hot molten rock(magma) from deep within the Earth. This rises to the surface at constructive and destructive plate margins. Volcanoes also form at hot spots, where the crust is thin and magma is able to break through the surface. The Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean are a good example of volcanoes forming at a hot spot.
