What is the volcanic explosivity index vei of a Yellowstone super eruption?
Regional Specifics88, the largest recorded value on the index. What is the VEI of Yellowstone? Explosivity (Volcanic Explosivity Index) – 8. Top of the scale – Yellowstone has had three of the largest eruptions known over the past 3 million years; only beaten by Toba in Indonesia, which erupted about 74,000 years ago. Each of these
What is the movement of tectonic plates called?
Regional SpecificsThe heat from radioactive processes within the planet’s interior causes the plates to move, sometimes toward and sometimes away from each other. This movement is called plate motion, or tectonic shift. What are the three movements of tectonic plates? Movement in narrow zones along plate boundaries causes most earthquakes. Most seismic activity occurs at three
What are the three main types of sedimentary rocks?
Regional SpecificsDigging into Earth’s Past: The Amazing World of Sedimentary Rocks Sedimentary rocks are everywhere! Seriously, they cover almost three-quarters of the Earth’s land surface. Think of them as nature’s history books, layered with clues about ancient environments, past climates, and even the long, winding road of evolution. These rocks, formed from the build-up and cementing
What is a quartz geode?
Regional SpecificsCracking Open Nature’s Treasure Chest: Quartz Geodes Explained Ever stumble upon a plain-looking rock that just begs to be cracked open? That might just be a geode, and if you’re lucky, a quartz geode at that! These aren’t your average rocks; they’re like nature’s little treasure chests, often hiding a dazzling interior of sparkling quartz
Did Monterey just have an earthquake?
Regional SpecificsDid Monterey Just Get Shaken Up? Let’s Talk Earthquakes So, has Monterey just had an earthquake? Well, as of today, August 12, 2025, things have been a little shaky, but not in a “the big one” kind of way. There’s been some recent seismic activity around Monterey County, and it’s always good to keep an
Why is magma formed from partial melting?
Regional SpecificsWhy Magma’s Not Just a Total Meltdown: The Secret of Partial Melting Ever wondered how that fiery stuff we call magma comes to be? You might picture the Earth’s insides as one giant molten soup, but the reality is far more nuanced. It turns out that magma rarely forms from rocks completely melting. Instead, it’s