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Letter VGeology glossary

Volcano

A volcano is a geological feature formed by the eruption of magma onto the Earth’s surface, creating a mountain or hill with a vent through which lava, ash, and gases are expelled. Volcanoes are significant in geology for understanding the processes of magma generation, the dynamics of eruptions, and the formation of volcanic landforms.

Active volcano erupting with bright lava at night
Fig. 1 Active volcano erupting with bright lava at night

Source Francis, P., & Oppenheimer, C. (2004). “Volcanoes.” Oxford University Press.

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