Volcanoes

What are Volcanoes? 

Magma

Volcanoes begin deep within the mantle where magma forms. Magma close to the surface melts and flows easily because the pressure is less. Magma can gush out of weak spots in the crust. A volcano is an opening in the earth where hot material erupts. 

Eruptions

An eruption is almost like opening a can of soda that has been shaken up. Gas bubbles separate from the liquid and force the liquid out. The materials that erupt from a volcano contain ash, cinders, and hot, molten rock called lava. As lava cools and hardens, it becomes igneous rock . 

When the lava cools and hardens, it creates brand new crust. Sometimes, the rock can even build so high that a mountain or island forms. 

Magma Chambers

Magma chambers are large pockets where magma collects. As the magma leaves the chamber, it moves up a tunnel. Sometimes, the magma excapes from the tunnel and erupts from side vents. Most of the magma erupts at the top of the volcano through a bowl-shaped crater.