IBGeographyDPHLRevision NotesGeophysical HazardsGeophysical Hazard RisksDistribution of Geophysical Hazards

Distribution of Geophysical Hazards (DP IB Geography)

Revision Note

Bridgette Barrett
DP Geography: HLDP Geography: SL

Distribution of Earthquakes

  • Earthquakes occur at all types of plate boundaries

    • Most occur along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” (approximately 90%)

World map showing tectonic plate boundaries and earthquake locations marked in red. Boundaries are depicted with dashed lines, while continents are colored green.
Distribution of earthquakes

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

World map highlighting earthquake-prone areas with red dots along tectonic plate boundaries, particularly the Pacific Ring of Fire, Mediterranean, and mid-Atlantic ridge.
Distribution of volcanic eruptions

Distribution of Mass Movement

  • The majority of mass movements occur in three main areas:

    • Highland areas

    • Along plate boundaries

    • Coastal areas

World map showing reports of frog extinctions across different regions, color-coded from 1 to 60 reports. Key indicates varying shades of blue and purple for different report ranges.
Distribution of mass movement

Examiner Tip

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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    Bridgette Barrett

    Author: Bridgette Barrett

    Expertise: Geography Lead

    After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.

    Jenna Quinn

    Author: Jenna Quinn

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    Jenna studied at Cardiff University before training to become a science teacher at the University of Bath specialising in Biology (although she loves teaching all three sciences at GCSE level!). Teaching is her passion, and with 10 years experience teaching across a wide range of specifications – from GCSE and A Level Biology in the UK to IGCSE and IB Biology internationally – she knows what is required to pass those Biology exams.