Volcanic eruption: causes and consequences

Volcanoes are faults on the surface of the earth's crust, through which later magma turns out, turning into lava and accompanied by volcanic bombs. They are found absolutely on all continents, but on the Earth there are places of their special accumulation. The latter is due to a variety of geologically active processes. All volcanoes, depending on their location and activity, are divided into several main categories: terrestrial, subglacial and underwater, extinct, asleep and acting.

The science involved in their study is called volcanology. This is an official discipline recognized throughout the world.

The eruption of volcanoes, as a rule, occurs with a certain regularity. At the same time, a large amount of volcanic gases and ash are emitted into the atmosphere. Several hundred years ago, people believed that these processes are caused by the wrath of the gods. At present, mankind knows that the eruption is of a natural nature, and the causes of volcanic eruptions lie in the deep layers of the earth, where liquid molten magma accumulates. In some places, it gradually begins to rise along the vents of volcanoes to the surface. Conventional magma quite easily passes various gas evaporation, and therefore lava leaves relatively quietly. It all looks like it's pouring out.

Acid magma, which is more dense in its structure, keeps gas evaporation much longer, resulting in high pressure, and volcanic eruptions take the form of a big explosion. This phenomenon can also be caused by the movement of tectonic plates and earthquakes.

The eruption of terrestrial-type volcanoes causes the formation of deadly pyroclastic flows, different in their power. They consist of hot gas and ash and are carried along the slopes at great speed. In addition, the release of toxic substances into the atmosphere and hot lava flows to the surface. The consequences of the eruption of submarine-type volcanoes are directly related to the formation of lethal waves and tsunamis. The faults related to the subglacial as a result of its large eruption, depending on the geological and geographical location, may lead to the formation of landslides, powerful mudflows and collapse of the glaciers themselves. Volcanic eruption, as a rule, is associated with loss of ground cover, air pollution, pollution of water bodies, lakes, rivers, and hence, drinking water.

Separately it is worth noting the disruptions in the operation of various infrastructures, the destruction of residential buildings and non-residential facilities, hunger and the spread of various kinds of infections.

The consequences of the eruption of powerful volcanoes have a direct effect on climate change and can provoke the onset of a so-called volcanic winter. Ashes and gases formed during the explosion reach the atmospheric layer and, like a blanket, completely cover the Earth. The rays of the sun will cease to penetrate, and sulfuric acid will precipitate to the surface as precipitation . The effect that will result from such processes will be similar to the consequences of a nuclear winter. Eruptions of this kind are quite rare, and today scientists are doing everything possible to reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.