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]

Jan 8, 2026 · 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 …

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.

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.

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...

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

May 21, 2025 · Volcanoes are classified as active, dormant, or extinct. Active volcanoes have a recent history of eruptions; they are likely to erupt again. Dormant volcanoes have not erupted for a very …