Understanding the Formation and Consequences of Volcanoes in Iceland

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The chapter explores the misconception of volcanoes as cone-shaped mountains and explains how Icelandic geology differs. It also discusses the potential consequences of magma reaching the surface and mentions fears of a volcanic eruption in Iceland.

As Iceland braces for a volcanic eruption, Madeleine Finlay hears from volcanologist Helga Torfadottir about how the country is preparing, and why this is happening now. She also speaks to Cambridge professor of volcanology Clive Oppenheimer about how scientists predict volcanic activity, and what it feels like to stare into a smouldering volcanic crater. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod