Volcanoes and Climate Change
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Description
Major volcanic eruptions alter the Earth's radiative balance, as volcanic ash and gas clouds absorb terrestrial radiation and scatter a significant amount of the incoming solar radiation, an effect known as "radiative forcing" that can last from two to three years following a volcanic eruption. This results in reduced temperatures in the troposphere, and changes in atmospheric circulation patterns. This site uses text, photographs, and links to related sites to describe volcano-induced climate change.
Learning Registry Activity
Bookmarks
Topics and Grades
Grade: 9 to 12
Topics: Earth & Space Science, Physics, Chemistry, Weather, Climate & Atmosphere, Science, Earth's Resources
Resource Pedagogy
Resource Type/Classification:
- Interactives
- Source Materials