Researchers have found that not all volcanoes explode because of the way gas bubbles form in magma. Bubbles can form when pressure drops, but they can also form due to something called shear forces—a result of movement in the magma.
When these bubbles grow, they can combine and create channels for gas to escape. This means the magma can flow gently instead of erupting violently. For example, even gas-rich magma can lead to a slow flow if bubbles form quickly enough to release gas.
Difficult words
- volcano — A mountain that can erupt with lava and gas.volcanoes
- explode — To burst suddenly and violently.
- magma — Hot liquid rock inside a volcano.
- bubbles — Small round pockets of gas in a liquid.
- pressure — The force applied on an area.
- flow — To move or come out steadily.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What do you think happens to magma when it erupts violently?
- How do you think gas bubbles affect the formation of volcanoes?
- Can you relate this information about volcanoes to any other natural events?
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