Part 9: Volcanism & Magmatism
Fire from Below
Volcanism is the surface expression of magma generation deep within the Earth. Most volcanic activity concentrates at plate boundaries—mid-ocean ridges and subduction zones—but hotspot volcanism occurs within plate interiors. Understanding magma genesis, ascent, and eruption style is critical for hazard assessment and resource exploration.
~1,500
Active Volcanoes
~80%
At Plate Boundaries
700–1300°C
Magma Temperature