Topic: Volcanoes, Earthquakes, and Landslides
1. Elucidate the process of volcano formation and its types. Also, mention a few examples of the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in recent times and their impact on the regional environment. (Answer in 250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The recent volcanic eruption in Tongo and a similar question was asked in UPSC Mains 2021 GS1 a few days back.
Key Demand of the question:
Explain volcano formation and its types with suitable examples.
Directive:
Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate them with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Define what Volcanoes are.
Body:
A volcano is a vent (opening) in the earth’s crust through which molten material erupts suddenly from a magma chamber below the surface. Due to very high temperatures, some rocks slowly melt and turn into a thick flowing matter known as magma. Since it is lighter than the solid rock around it, the magma rises and gets collected in magma chambers which eventually pushes through fissures and vents on the earth’s surface.
Start by discussing their formation.
Mention types of volcanoes with suitable diagrams and descriptions.
Present the various landforms associated with it. Both intrusive and extrusive.
Also, highlight its impact on the environment.
Conclusion:
Conclude with their significant contributions in landform formation.
