Distribution of Geophysical Hazards (DP IB Geography)
Revision Note
Written by: Bridgette Barrett
Reviewed by: Jenna Quinn
Distribution of Earthquakes
Earthquakes occur at all types of plate boundaries
Most occur along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” (approximately 90%)
Distribution of Volcanoes
Most volcanoes occur at constructive and 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 that escape through the Earth's crust
Distribution of Mass Movement
The majority of mass movements occur in three main areas:
Highland areas
Along plate boundaries
Coastal areas
Examiner Tips and Tricks
In the exam, you may be asked to outline factors which affect the distribution of geophysical hazards. You must be able to explain why geophysical hazards are often associated with plate boundaries but also identify other factors which may affect distribution. For example, volcanoes can occur at hot spots as a result of magma plumes.
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