Earthquake & Volcano Distribution
Earthquake distribution
- Earthquakes occur at all types of plate boundaries
- Most occur along the Pacific 'Ring of Fire' (approximately 90%)
Earthquake Distribution
Volcano distribution
- Most volcanoes occur at divergent (constructive) and convergent (destructive) plate boundaries
- The majority of active volcanoes (approximately 75%) are located around the rim of the Pacific Ocean called the 'Ring of Fire'
- Hotspots occur away from plate boundaries and are plumes/columns of magma which escape through the Earth's crust
Active Volcano Distribution
Exam Tip
When describing the distribution of hazards from a map ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the general pattern?
- Does the pattern relate to anything else for example the location of plate boundaries?
- Are they close to the equator or further away?
- Are they inland or coastal?
Use map features to help with your description - place names, compass rose, latitude and longitude.
