Distribution of Earthquakes & Volcanoes (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Geography)
Revision Note
Written by: Bridgette Barrett
Reviewed by: Jenna Quinn
Earthquake & Volcano Distribution
Earthquake distribution
Earthquakes occur at all types of plate boundaries
Most (approximately 90%) occur around the rim of the Pacific Ocean
This zone is called the 'Ring of Fire'
Volcano distribution
Most volcanoes occur at divergent (constructive) and convergent (destructive) plate boundaries
Like earthquakes, the majority of active volcanoes (approximately 75%) are located around the Pacific 'Ring of Fire'
Volcanoes also occur at hotspots away from plate boundaries and are plumes/columns of magma which escape through the Earth's crust
Examiner Tips and Tricks
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.
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