Volcanoes
Volcanoes are openings in the Earth’s surface that allow magma, hot ash and gases to escape. When they escape this is called an eruption.
Inside a volcano you will find magma. Magma is molten rock, this means it is rock that is so hot it has turned into a liquid.
During a volcanic eruption magma will erupt onto the surface of the Earth. When the magma comes out of the volcano we call it lava. You can see lava flowing out the Kilauea Volcano in the USGS YouTube video above!
How are volcanoes made?
When a volcano erupts, lava and ash flow down the sides of the volcano. The alternate layers of lava and ash cool and turn into solid igneous rocks. Over time the volcano may erupt again, adding new layers of igneous rock and becoming larger and taller.
Put your knowledge to the test and either print and complete the volcano worksheet below or instead, draw your own version on paper and add labels, answering the questions on the worksheet.
Create your own volcano
Follow along with the video below to create your own 3D volcano model.
You’ll need: scissors, glue, colouring pencils or pens, a cup and a bowl. Make sure you seek adult supervision when you are using scissors.
Explore a Volcano in 3D
Explore Mount St. Helens in 3D using the model below. Mount St. Helens is a large volcano in the USA and erupted in 1980 losing 227 metres from its height!