How are volcanic eruptions distributed globally?

Volcanic eruptions are mainly distributed along tectonic plate boundaries, especially around the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Volcanic eruptions occur where tectonic plates meet, as these are the zones of intense geological activity. The Pacific Ring of Fire is the most famous example, encircling the Pacific Ocean and featuring about 75% of the world's active and dormant volcanoes. This area is highly active because it is where several major tectonic plates, such as the Pacific Plate, the North American Plate, and the Eurasian Plate, interact.

Another significant area for volcanic activity is the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a divergent boundary where the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate are moving apart. This underwater mountain range is home to numerous volcanoes, including those in Iceland, which sits directly on top of the ridge. Iceland's unique position makes it one of the most volcanically active places on Earth.

Volcanoes are also found at hotspots, which are areas where plumes of hot mantle material rise towards the surface. The Hawaiian Islands are a classic example of hotspot volcanism. Unlike plate boundary volcanoes, hotspot volcanoes can occur in the middle of tectonic plates. The Hawaiian hotspot has created a chain of islands as the Pacific Plate moves over it.

In addition to these major zones, volcanic activity can also be found in other regions where tectonic plates interact. For example, the East African Rift Valley is a divergent boundary where the African Plate is splitting into the Somali Plate and the Nubian Plate, leading to volcanic activity in countries like Ethiopia and Kenya.

Understanding the distribution of volcanic eruptions helps us predict where future eruptions might occur and prepare for their potential impacts. This knowledge is crucial for communities living near active volcanoes and for scientists monitoring volcanic activity.