Volcanic hazards
I can explain what pyroclastic flows, ash and lahars are and relate this to real life examples.
Volcanic hazards
I can explain what pyroclastic flows, ash and lahars are and relate this to real life examples.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Volcanic eruptions can lead to a range of hazards, such as pyroclastic flows, ash and lahars.
- Pyroclastic flows are flows of hot volcanic gases, ash and rock.
- Ash is made up of tiny pieces of volcanic rock and glass, this can damage lungs, machines, crops and buildings.
- Lahars are mudflows caused by volcanic material mixed with water.
- Mount Semeru (Java, Indonesia) erupted in 2021, triggering damaging pyroclastic flows, ashfall and lahars.
Keywords
Pyroclastic flow - a very hot mix of lava, ash, gases and rock that flows rapidly down the side of the volcano
Ash - tiny pieces of volcanic rock and glass
Lahar - a mudflow formed when volcanic ash mixes with water
Infrastructure - all the basic systems in a country, such as transport and power supply
Common misconception
Lava is the only dangerous aspect to a volcanic eruption and you can just run out of the way.
Ash, lahars and pyroclastic flows are all extremely dangerous volcanic hazards. Pyroclastic flows can reach speeds of 435 mph, which is faster than a car.
To help you plan your year 8 geography lesson on: Volcanic hazards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 geography lesson on: Volcanic hazards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Tectonic hazards: Why is Earth restless? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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