Volcano Hazards Program

List of large volcanic eruptions in the 21st century This is a list of volcanic eruptions of the 21st century measuring a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of at least 4, as well as notable smaller eruptions. Note that the size of eruptions can be subject to considerable uncertainty. See also[edit] References[edit] External links[edit] Volcano- EnchantedLearning.com A volcano is a place on the Earth's surface (or any other planet's or moon's surface) where molten rock, gases and pyroclastic debris erupt through the earth's crust. Volcanoes vary quite a bit in their structure - some are cracks in the earth's crust where lava erupts, and some are domes, shields, or mountain-like structures with a crater at the summit. Magma is molten rock within the Earth's crust. When magma erupts through the earth's surface it is called lava. Volcanic eruptions can cause great damage and the loss of life and property. The Word Volcano: The word volcano comes from the Roman god of fire, Vulcan. Extreme Volcanoes: The largest volcano on Earth is Hawaii's Mauna Loa. The largest volcano in our Solar System is perhaps Olympus Mons on the planet Mars. Click on an underlined word for more information on that subject.If the volcano term you are looking for is not in the dictionary, please e-mail us. Go to Volcano Activities