Volcanoes - AQAPositive and negative effects of volcano eruptions
Composite and shield volcanoes are found along plate margins. They have distinctive characteristics and can have both positive and negative effects on people and the landscape.
The positive and negative effects of volcano eruptions
Volcanoes have a large effect on their locality. They produce ash, lavaMolten rock that is released from the Earth's core in a volcano or fissure. , volcanic bombsLarge blocks of hot rock thrown from a volcano., pyroclastic flowA current of hot gas and rock that flows downhill at high speed. and laharA destructive volcanic landslide or mudflow, consisting of a mixture of volcanic debris, mud, rock and water.. Ash from large volcanoes has been known to affect global climates.
The effects of volcanoes can be both positive and negative.
Positive effects
geothermalEnergy from the heat of the Earth. energy is where heat from within the Earth is used to generate electricity. Geothermal energy can be generated in areas where magmaMolten rock that is found within the Earth. lies close to the surface. This is good for increasing our renewable energy use.
Ash ejected by the volcano acts as a good fertiliser for soils.
Volcanoes attract many tourists, who enjoy the dramatic scenery that they produce.
Negative effects
Volcanoes are dangerous. They can kill people and damage property.
Economic activity can suffer as it is hard for businesses to operate after an eruption.
Habitats and landscapes are damaged by lava flows.