Mountain vs. Volcano

Attribute	Mountain	Volcano
Definition	A large natural elevation of the earth's surface rising abruptly from the surrounding level	A mountain that has a vent through which lava, rock fragments, hot vapor, and gas are being or have been erupted from the earth's crust
Formation	Formed through tectonic forces, erosion, and volcanic activity	Formed through volcanic activity
Height	Can vary greatly in height, with some reaching over 8,000 meters (e.g. Mount Everest)	Can also vary in height, with some reaching over 4,000 meters (e.g. Mauna Loa)
Composition	Comprised of rocks, soil, and vegetation	Comprised of volcanic rocks, lava, and ash
Activity	Generally not active in terms of volcanic eruptions	Can be active, dormant, or extinct with potential for eruptions

Formation

Mountains are formed through tectonic plate movements, where two plates collide or move away from each other, causing the Earth's crust to rise and form a mountain range. This process can take millions of years and involves immense pressure and heat. On the other hand, volcanoes are formed when magma from the Earth's mantle rises to the surface through a vent or opening in the crust. The magma solidifies and builds up over time, creating a cone-shaped structure.

Location

Mountains can be found on every continent and in various climates, from the icy peaks of the Himalayas to the lush greenery of the Andes. They can also be found underwater, forming underwater mountain ranges known as seamounts. Volcanoes, on the other hand, are typically found along tectonic plate boundaries, known as the Ring of Fire. This area includes the Pacific Ocean basin and is home to a large number of active volcanoes.

Height

Mountains can vary greatly in height, with some towering over 8,000 meters above sea level, such as Mount Everest in the Himalayas. Volcanoes can also reach impressive heights, with some volcanic peaks exceeding 4,000 meters. However, the height of a volcano is often determined by the amount of magma that has erupted and accumulated over time.

Activity

Mountains are typically considered dormant or inactive, with no recent history of volcanic activity. However, some mountains are located near active volcanic regions and may experience earthquakes or other geological events. Volcanoes, on the other hand, are known for their explosive eruptions and lava flows. They can be classified as active, dormant, or extinct based on their recent activity.

Shape

Mountains have a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the geological processes that formed them. They can be sharp and jagged, like the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, or rounded and sloping, like the hills of the Appalachian range. Volcanoes, on the other hand, typically have a conical shape, with a central vent or crater at the summit. This shape is a result of the accumulation of lava and volcanic ash over time.

Ecology

Mountains are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, adapted to the harsh conditions of high altitudes. These ecosystems can include alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and dense forests. Volcanoes, on the other hand, are known for their barren landscapes immediately surrounding the crater, due to the high temperatures and toxic gases emitted during eruptions. However, some volcanoes can support unique ecosystems, such as sulfur-loving bacteria and heat-resistant plants.

Impact

Mountains have a significant impact on the surrounding environment, influencing weather patterns, water flow, and biodiversity. They also provide important resources such as minerals, timber, and freshwater. Volcanoes, on the other hand, can have a more immediate and destructive impact through eruptions, which can cause widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human settlements. However, volcanic eruptions can also create new land and enrich the soil with minerals.