Volcanoes And Earthquakes Questions Medium
A volcano and a mountain are both geological formations, but they have distinct differences.
A volcano is a specific type of mountain that forms when molten rock, ash, and gases erupt onto the Earth's surface. It is essentially a vent or opening in the Earth's crust through which magma, or molten rock, is expelled. Volcanoes are typically cone-shaped and have a crater at the summit, which is the opening through which volcanic materials are ejected. The eruption of a volcano can release lava flows, pyroclastic materials (such as ash and pumice), and volcanic gases.
On the other hand, a mountain is a landform that is elevated above its surroundings and has a peak or summit. Mountains are formed through various geological processes, such as tectonic plate movements, folding, faulting, and erosion. Unlike volcanoes, mountains are not necessarily associated with volcanic activity. They can be formed by the collision of tectonic plates, the uplift of rock layers, or the erosion of softer rocks surrounding harder ones.
In summary, the main difference between a volcano and a mountain lies in their formation and geological processes. A volcano is a specific type of mountain that forms due to volcanic activity and the eruption of magma onto the Earth's surface, while a mountain is a more general term for an elevated landform that can be formed through various geological processes.