vulkaane

Vulkaane are geological formations, typically conical in shape, where molten rock, volcanic ash, and gases escape from below the Earth's surface. These eruptions occur when pressure builds up within the Earth's mantle, forcing magma to rise through weaknesses in the crust. The material expelled, known as lava once it reaches the surface, cools and solidifies to form the volcano's structure over time.

The most common type of volcano is the stratovolcano, characterized by its steep sides and explosive eruptions. Shield volcanoes, in contrast, have broad, gently sloping sides formed by effusive eruptions of fluid lava. Cinder cones are smaller, steep-sided cones built from ejected volcanic fragments. Calderas are large, basin-shaped depressions formed by the collapse of a volcano after a major eruption.

Volcanic activity is a significant geological process, shaping landscapes and influencing climate. While volcanic eruptions can be destructive, they also create fertile soil and can be a source of geothermal energy. The study of vulkaane and their activity is known as volcanology.