Iceland’s Volcanic Activity

Written by Jack Hassard

On April 17, 2010

Eyjafjallajokull, the volcano in Iceland that has been erupting and causing havoc for thousands of people around the world, is one of about 200 volcanoes that are located in Iceland.  Iceland is the world’s most active volcanic area, and the country is located at the interface of two tectonic plates that are moving away from each other at a point known as the mid-ocean ridge.  Iceland is unique that the spreading apart of the these two large tectonic plates is taking place at sea level, as opposed to many other examples of spreading that occur well below sea level.

Here are some pictures that I’ve gathered to include images of the volcano, as well as maps of the geology of the Iceland.

This map identifies two of Iceland's prominent geological features: glaciers and volcanoes. Source: http://www.exploratorium.edu/theworld/iceland/map.html

This map provides more detail about the nature of Iceland's volcanoes, and geological activity on the island. Source: usgs.gov

This is a view of the erupting volcano Eyjafjallajokull. Source: http://www.boston.com/

A closer view of the volcano Source: http://www.boston.com/

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A satellite view showing the ash from the volcano (look in the upper left of the photo) as it moves north of Great Britain. The ash has now spread over GB, and much of Europe causing the suspension of thousands of flights. Source: http://www.boston.com/

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