Does the Earth Smoke?

A volcano is a geological feature on the Earth’s surface that occurs when molten rock, called magma, rises from the Earth’s mantle and erupts to the surface. This eruption can have both beneficial and catastrophic consequences for the planet and for living organisms, such as:

❖  The release of various gases into the atmosphere that are harmful not only to humans, as they can cause health problems when inhaled, but also to the planet itself, as the release of greenhouse gases can worsen climate change.

❖  Injecting small particles into the air that can reduce visibility, cause respiratory problems and absorb sunlight, thus playing a negative role in changing the temperature or overall climate.

❖  Concentration of sulphur dioxide, a gas that can form sulphate aerosols when released into the atmosphere. These reflect sunlight back into space, causing a temporary cooling of the climate.

BUT:

❖  Volcanoes help to shape the Earth’s surface and create new land – islands, mountains, plains; and when lava cools, it becomes solid rock again.

❖  Over time, the accumulation of volcanic materials can form fertile soils, and volcanic activity can create unique ecosystems that support diverse plant and animal life.