The impact of eruptions: Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland
I can describe and explain the forces at work when volcanoes erupt, and how these may alter the landscape and environment.
The impact of eruptions: Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland
I can describe and explain the forces at work when volcanoes erupt, and how these may alter the landscape and environment.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Iceland is located on the Mid Atlantic Ridge where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge.
- The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull occurred on 14 April 2010 and continued for over one month.
- Heat from the eruption caused the glacier covering Eyjafjallajökull to melt and the resulting flood water damaged roads.
- Ash from the eruption rose high into the atmosphere and grounded aircraft, impacting on the European economy.
Common misconception
Pupils assume that all volcanic eruptions cause fatalities.
Fatalities are reduced through detection and warning systems; evacuation procedures; emergency service response, training and funding. Iceland is very well prepared for volcanic eruptions.
Keywords
Diverge - To diverge is to go in different directions from the same starting point
Economy - The economy is the way money in a particular area is made and spent
Meltwater - Meltwater is water from the melting of snow or ice
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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