Volcanoes: A Planetary Perspective

Several of the greatest disasters in history were caused by volcanic eruptions, and some have influenced the course of human civilization. Inevitably, the sheer physical power of volcanic eruptions makes them of compelling interest. Apart from their immediate effects, large eruptions also have world-wide atmospheric effects, with implications for the global climate which are becoming of increasing current concern. In this book, Dr Francis gives an account - much of it from first-hand experience in many parts of the world - of the familiar violent aspects of volcanoes and the various forms that eruptions can take. He also goes beyond the spectacular visible displays to explore why volcanoes exist at all, why volcanoes occur where they do, and how examples of major historical eruptions can be interpreted in terms of physical processes. Throughout, he attempts to place volcanism on Earth and the stunning range of volcanic phenomena revealed by spacecraft exploration of the Solar System. Students of geology, geography, and the environment should find the book useful. The straightforward, approachable style means that it should also appeal to a wide range of other readers who wish to learn more about one of the most awesome of natural phenomena.