A volcano is a vent or fissure in the crust of a planetary-mass object, such as Earth, that allows hot lava, volcanic ash, and gases to escape from a magma chamber below the surface. [1]

Volcano, vent in the crust of Earth or another planet or satellite, from which issue eruptions of molten rock, hot rock fragments, and hot gases. The term volcano can also refer to the landform created by …

1 day ago · Interactive Map of Active Volcanoes and recent Earthquakes world-wide

Volcanoes are openings, or vents where lava, tephra (small rocks), and steam erupt onto the Earth's surface. Volcanic eruptions can last days, months, or even years.

Articles, facts, information and photos for volcanoes and volcanic activity. | Geology.com

Nov 22, 2025 · Volcanoes are geological formations that result from the accumulation of molten rock, ash, and gases beneath the Earth’s surface. These materials are expelled through openings or vents …

Jul 10, 2025 · Volcanoes are Earth’s geologic architects. They’ve created more than 80 percent of our planet’s surface, laying the foundation that has allowed life to thrive. Their explosive force crafts...

A volcanic eruption is the expulsion of gases, rock fragments, and/or molten lava from within the Earth through a vent onto the Earth’s surface or into the atmosphere.

Erupted materials accumulate around the vent forming a volcanic mountain. The accumulated material might consist of layers of solidified lava, called lava flows, but it might also include fragments of …

Volcanic "bombs" are chunks of semimolten lava that fly out of a volcano and solidify as they land. They're often flung miles from the volcanic crater.