Topic: Important Geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.
1. Volcanic activity plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth’s surface and contributing to geological processes. However, its impacts on the environment and human activities can be both beneficial and detrimental. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
Data from the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program suggests that 56 volcanoes erupted in the first six months of 2023. In November 2023, shifting magma under the Earth’s crust triggered hundreds of earthquakes around the town of Grindavik in Iceland, with seismologists warning the quakes could be a precursor to a volcanic eruption.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the impact of Volcanic eruptions and associated activities.
Directive:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
Body:
First, write about the environmental effects of volcanism -Emission of gases and aerosols, Formation of volcanic ash and tephra, Creation of volcanic landforms and Impact on climate and weather patterns, Destruction of vegetation and habitats, Introduction of new species Formation of new ecosystems etc.
Next, write about effects on Human Activities – Threats to human health, Agricultural impacts, Economic consequences, Disruption of transportation and infrastructure etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning ways to deal with above.
