How does climate change affect volcanic eruptions? Vise Versa

Answer 1

Hello! This is such an exciting question and one that many people might not consider! Climate change and volcanic activity are intertwined in a fascinating dance of cause and effect. As the climate warms, glaciers and ice caps melt, reducing pressure on Earth's crust, particularly in volcanic regions like Iceland. This can potentially trigger more volcanic eruptions.

On the other hand, volcanoes play their part in climate dynamics too. Eruptions release carbon dioxide, a known greenhouse gas, although humans' contribution of CO2 far outstrips that of volcanoes. Simultaneously, sulfur dioxide ejected during eruptions can cool the Earth's climate by reflecting sunlight. For example, this phenomenon, called volcanic winter, led to a significant drop in global temperature following the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo. I hope this helps! -Sarah :)