Volcanoes By…

What is a Volcano?

A volcano is a mountain that forms when magma reaches the surface of the Earth. When magma breaks through a weak spot in the Earth’s surface, a volcano is formed. When a volcano erupts, gases, ashes and rocks are forced out.

Effects of a Volcanic Eruption

When a volcano erupts, a lot of destruction can be done to nearby homes and people. A long time ago, a city called Pompeii, was completely destroyed when a volcano named Mt. Vesuvius erupted.

Volcanoes can be helpful too. The hot rocks that come out of a volcano are rich with minerals. These minerals are great for growing plants.

Our Thoughts and Questions

We never knew that volcanoes can be helpful. We wonder if scientists have a way to figure out when a volcano will erupt.

Cited Sources • Volcano Watch. Scholastic News -- Edition 3, 1/4/2010, Vol. 66 Issue 11, p2-2

• Watch Out! It's About to Blow! Time for Kids, 11/12/99, Vol. 5 Issue 9, p2

• RIVER OF LAVA. By: Wallace, Audra. Science World, 10/18/2010, Vol. 67 Issue 3, p6-6