Why Do Volcanoes Erupt?
The Big Idea
Journey deep beneath the Earth's crust to discover the explosive power of volcanoes. Learn how heat, pressure, and trapped gases combine to force molten rock to the surface in a spectacular and terrifying display of nature's power.
Key Vocabulary & Concepts

Hands-On Observation Checklist
Teacher & Parent Discussion Starters
- Why is understanding why do volcanoes erupt? important in everyday real life?
- What variable or factor had the biggest impact when testing the simulation?
- How does this concept connect to another science topic you have learned about?
Redirecting to /wonders/why-do-volcanoes-erupt/watch...
Related Wonders
What Causes Earthquakes?
Feel the power of the Earth's shifting surface. Discover how massive tectonic plates get stuck and then suddenly snap, releasing enormous amounts of energy that create the ground-shaking tremors we know as earthquakes.
How Do Mountains Form?
Witness the slow-motion collision of continents and discover how the Earth's crust crumples like a massive car crash to build the world's highest peaks. Learn why you can find ocean seashells at the very top of Mount Everest.
What Causes Lightning?
Discover the violent atmospheric physics that turn storm clouds into giant floating batteries. Learn how ice and sleet crashing together generate massive sparks of natural static electricity that can heat the air to 50,000 degrees.
