The importance of volcanoes

Added: 2026-05-21

[00:00:00]Volcanoes seem destructive, but without them, Earth might be lifeless. Early in Earth's history, volcanic eruptions released gases that helped form the atmosphere and oceans. They also brought minerals and heat to the surface. Some scientists think life may have begun near deep-sea volcanic vents where hot, mineral-rich water flowed from the ocean floor. Even today, volcanic eruptions create new land and recycle nutrients through ecosystems. The same forces capable of destroying entire regions may also have helped life begin in the first place.