Volcanoes
A volcano is an opening in Earth's surface that allows hot, molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from deep within the Earth. Volcanoes are found all over the world, from the frozen ice caps of Antarctica to the tropical islands of the Pacific Ocean.
How do volcanoes work?
Volcanoes are formed when tectonic plates move and collide. When two plates move apart, molten rock from the Earth's mantle rises up to fill the gap. This molten rock is called magma. If magma reaches the surface of the Earth, it is called lava.
When magma reaches the surface of the Earth, it can erupt in a variety of ways. Some volcanoes erupt explosively, sending ash and gases high into the atmosphere. Other volcanoes erupt more calmly, flowing lava down the sides of the volcano.