Question

Name 4 BAD effects of volcanic eruptions.

a) Soil enrichment
b) Destruction of infrastructure
c) Lava flows
d) Air pollution

Answer 1

Volcanic eruptions can result in environmental damage, air pollution, destruction by lava flows, and negative economic impact.

Step-by-step explanation:

Volcanic eruptions can have several negative effects:

1. Environmental damage: Volcanic eruptions can cause destruction of infrastructure, such as buildings, roads, and bridges. For example, the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 devastated the north side of the mountain, demolishing forests and replacing them with volcanic debris that formed new soil. This can lead to the loss of habitats and destruction of ecosystems.
2. Air pollution: During volcanic eruptions, large amounts of gases and particulates are released into the atmosphere. This can result in air pollution, with gases including greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and acidic pollutants like sulfur dioxide. These pollutants can have negative health effects and contribute to climate change.
3. Lava flows: The flow of lava during volcanic eruptions can destroy everything in its path, including vegetation and human settlements. The fast-moving lava can easily engulf structures and cause extensive damage.
4. Economic impact: Volcanic eruptions can have significant economic consequences. The damage caused by eruptions, such as destruction of infrastructure, loss of agricultural land, and dislocation of populations, can result in financial loss and disruption of local economies.