Final answer:
Volcanism plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth by contributing to temperature regulation through the greenhouse effect, renewing the Earth's surface, forming atmospheres and oceans, and recycling essential nutrients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Volcanism is critical for sustaining life on Earth for several reasons. The geological activity reflected in volcanic eruptions helps regulate the planet's temperature through the greenhouse effect, which is essential for keeping Earth warm enough to support life. In addition, these eruptions aid in the creation and renewal of Earth's surface by spreading highly fluid lava, which forms new crust and recycles nutrients. Furthermore, volcanoes contribute to the formation of atmospheres and oceans, shaping the necessary conditions for life as we know it.
For instance, the volcanic outgassing releases gases such as water vapor and carbon dioxide, which are crucial for maintaining a life-supporting environment. This was also significant for the development of life on our planet, potentially contributing to creating the very first oceans and atmosphere that allowed life to move from the ocean onto land. Last but not least, the continuous geological activity signals that our planet is vibrant and dynamic, which is a stark contrast to smaller celestial bodies like the Moon, that cooled quickly and ceased their geological processes in the distant past.