Question

What is a volcano? Discuss the different types of volcanoes classified on the basis of the frequency of their eruption with the help of suitable examples.

Accepted Answer

A volcano is commonly known as the ‘mountain of fire’. It is a circular opening through which molten materials erupt from the interior of the earth. This opening is known as a vent, and sometimes it might be a fissure, which is a long crack.

Volcanoes are divided into three kinds based on the frequency of eruptions.

Active Volcanoes: Volcanoes that often erupt, spewing lava, gases, ash, and rocks from the interior of the Earth, are known as Active volcanoes. These are often referred to as Living volcanoes as well.

Examples: Stromboli and Etna are active volcanoes in Italy.

Dormant Volcanoes: Volcanoes that have quieted down after erupting are known as Dormant volcanoes. Presently, there are no signs of eruption on these volcanoes, but there is a strong possibility of an eruption in the near future. These volcanoes can sometimes be referred to as sleeping volcanoes.

Example: Vesuvius is a dormant volcano in Italy.

Extinct Volcanoes: Extinct volcanoes have not erupted for hundreds of years, and there is no chance of an eruption shortly. They are often referred to as Dead volcanoes.

Examples: Extinct volcanoes include Kilimanjaro in Africa and Rainier in the United States.

HALF-YEARLY TEST PAPER

R K Jain Social Science Solutions for Exercise - HALF-YEARLY TEST PAPER

Questions from HALF-YEARLY TEST PAPER with Hints & Solutions

Learn and Prepare for any exam you want !