Dynamic Earth

The purpose of this WebQuest is to review the processes that create volcanoes and why there are different types of volcanoes and eruptions. You will also answer a final question that gives you a chance to do your own research. Please avoid plagiarism by writing in your own words. 

Answer the questions on google docs or on loose leaf. Again your answers should be in your own words. Plagiarism will be penalized. 

You must click on the links to gain the information needed (links are in the text so words may appear blue). If you have any questions please email me at ariley@kurthahnschool.org. 

**Move on to Task

• A.  How do volcanoes form? (use this link to answer the questions in your notebooks AND packet on volcano anatomy) 

1. Near what type of plate boundaries do volcanoes occur? There is also one more place ( Hint Hawaii).
2. Based on the picture, what are the processes that result in the creation of a volcano?

• B. How is magma created? 

1. What are the two processes? Where (plate boundaries) do these processes occur?

• C. Where are most volcanoes located on earth? (Use the link provided and the USGS map to tell us where most volcanoes are located.)

Although most earthquakes and volcanoes are associated with plate boundaries, they are not always located directly along the boundaries. Considering boundaries between oceanic and continental plates:

         a) Why are volcanoes usually found on the continental side of a plate boundary?

•  D    Volcanic Eruptions

a)    What causes an eruption?

Define the following terms, all of which may result from an eruption:

b)    PYROCLASTIC FLOW

c)   LAVA BOMBS

d)    ERUPTION (ASH) CLOUD

e)   LAVA

f)    LAHAR

• E   Build your own volcano. Click on "Build your own volcano and watch it erupt." Experiment and then answer the following questions:

1. Three physical characteristics controls the viscosity of a magma that ultimately determines its explosiveness. They are composition, temperature and disssolved gases. Explain how each of these are essential ( important). Remember composition is how much silica and temperature is the temperature at which the magma erupts. You might use the volcano simulation to see some numbers or refer to your notebooks and handouts for help. 

• F  Types of volcanoes  & Video

Click on the link and describe each type of volcano and give an example:

1. Shield
2. Composite 
3. Cinder 

• G Watch the videos below and answer the questions associated. 

1. What are the hazards associated with volcanic eruptions?
2. What are Pyroclastic flows?
3. What effects does volcanoes have on climate?
4. How are volcanoes benefitial?

Make sure you click on Evaluation for final research  question !!

• You will have until December 11th to complete this webquest.

• A rubric is provided in class and you will be graded based on the rubric. 

You will write a detailed, no less than 300 word paper on 1 of the 3 questions ( you get to choose):

1. Research a famous lava flow ( this can be a power point presentation which you will present or a written report)

Search the Web for information about the Columbia River Basalt Group in the Northwest. Prepare a report to the class about the members of this famous basalt group in relation to largest, longest, thickest, cooling characteristics, effects on ancient topography, and cause. Be sure to use reliable sources and include in your report how you know they are reliable.

2.  Lava and the biosphere

How have lava flows at Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes affected Hawaiian communities? How does the lava that enters the Pacific Ocean in Hawaii affect coastal ecosystems?

3. Lava and the cryosphere

What happens when lava erupts from an ice- or snow-capped volcano? This is an issue in the Cascade volcanoes. Mt. Rainier, which overlooks Seattle, has 27 glaciers. You might gain some insights from exploring the 2004 eruption at Grimsvötn in Iceland.