According to theory of plate tectonics, Earth is an active planet -- its surface is composed of many individual plates that move and interact, constantly changing and reshaping Earth's outer layer. Volcanoes and earthquakes both result from the movement of tectonic plates. This interactive feature shows the relationship between earthquakes and volcanoes and the boundaries of tectonic plates. By clicking ... Full description.

This page consists of two maps of the world, showing how earthquakes define the boundaries of tectonic plates. Volcanoes are also distributed at plate boundaries (the "Ring of Fire" in the Pacific) and at oceanic ridges. It is part of the U.S. Geological Survey's Cascades Volcano Observatory website, which features written material, images, maps, and links to related topics. Full description.

This activity has students compare maps of plate tectonics with population density maps and to analyze what these maps imply about the relationship between population and seismic hazards. Students will read about and discuss the theory of plate tectonics, map the regions of the United States that are most susceptible to earthquakes and those that have volcanoes, and list the states that lie on plate ... Full description.

This unit provides an introduction for younger students on earthquakes, volcanoes, and how they are related. Topics include evidence of continental drift, types of plate boundaries, types of seismic waves, and how to calculate the distance to the epicenter of an earthquake. There is also information on how earthquake magnitude and intensity are measured, and how seismic waves can reveal the Earth's ... Full description.

This resource is part of the Science Education Gateway (SEGway) project, funded by NASA, which is a national consortium of scientists, museums, and educators working together to bring the latest science to students, teachers, and the general public. In this lesson, students use the Internet to research data on earthquakes and volcanoes and plot locations to determine plate boundaries. Extensions include ... Full description.

This map shows Earth's tectonic features, volcanoes, earthquakes, and impact craters. Smaller inset maps are included to depict the North and South Poles. The back of the map provides additional information, highlighting examples of fundamental processes; and providing text, timelines, references, and other resources to enhance understanding. The main and polar maps feature online interactive versions. ... Full description.

This Thinkquest offers an encyclopedic look at plate tectonics and volcanoes. Reference sections describe the interior of the Earth, continental drift, sea floor spreading, subduction, volcano types and eruptions, lava flow, and famous volcanoes. Lesson plans cover the internal structure of Earth, plate tectonic theory, and how volcanic eruptions and earthquakes affect the human environment. There ... Full description.

At this site students use the Web to explore places they would not otherwise be able to visit. Here they get to visit a volcano erupting approximately 2,300 meters (1.5 miles) below the surface of the sea. During their research, they investigate the dynamic forces at work in the deep seas, including the submarine volcanoes and earthquakes that are the direct result of plate tectonics. To conduct their ... Full description.

This on-line text offers chapters on: a Basic Description of Earthquake History, Where Earthquakes Occur, How Earthquakes Happen, Measuring Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Earthquakes, and Predicting Earthquakes. Originally published as a book in a series of general interest publications prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey. Some figures in this version of "Earthquakes", however, have been changed for ... Full description.

This portal provides links to an extensive list of volcano-related websites for the United States and around the world. Users can access articles, maps, glossaries, webcams, a dictionary of volcanoes, and many other resources. Full description.