Science 6 Quarter 4 Changes on the Surface of the

Earth as a Result of Volcanic Eruption

What is a Volcano
- A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust where lava, pyroclastic materials, and gases are
ejected onto the surface during eruptions. Volcanic eruption changes the landscape in a violent
manner.

Different Parts of a Volcano

 Magma Chamber- A magma chamber is a large pool of liquid rock beneath the surface of
the Earth. The molten rock, or magma, in such a chamber is less dense than the
surrounding country rock, which produces buoyant forces on the magma that tend to drive it
upwards.

 Conduit - The channel or pipe that carries magma from a reservoir or chamber to the vent
where it is erupted.

 Vent- Any opening at the Earth's surface through which magma erupts or volcanic gases
are emitted.

 Crater- Is the bowl shaped opening located at the top of the volcano. The crater is also the
steep sided walls made of hardened lava that surround the main vent.