Distribution of Earthquakes & Volcanoes (Cambridge International IGCSE Geography)

Earthquake & Volcano Distribution

Spec point — 2.1.2 · Describe and explain the distribution of earthquakes & volcanoes

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'

Earthquake distribution

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

Active volcano distribution

Exam Hint 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.