Science Projects on Hypothesis for Volcanoes

Volcanoes are popular science projects.
••• NA/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Volcanoes have captured the imaginations of science-fair participants for generations. The fun of simulating oozing lava and creating volcanic-like explosions is undeniable. Volcanoes play an important role in the topographical and meteorological patterns of Earth’s past, present and future. The complex science of volcanoes lends itself to a variety of science-project hypotheses.

Amateur Volcanologist

Volcanologists study both active and dormant volcanoes, how they formed, and their current and historic activity. According to the University of Oregon, most of the work of the volcanologist happens in the laboratory, not at the edge of a red-hot volcano writhing with molten lava. In fact, investigating data and coming up with hypotheses is one of the most important jobs of a volcanologist.

Hazardous Volcanoes

Volcanic eruptions have many hazards, from lava flows to spewing ash. Determining where the most hazardous volcanoes are located in the world is a good project hypothesis. First, students would need to determine the main hazards of a volcano and consider factors such as human life, plant and animal life, air quality and damage to property. Data would need to be collected on volcanoes in different parts of the world and students would need to form conclusions based on the same criteria for each volcano.

Effects on Earth System

Throughout history, volcanoes have had a profound effect on Earth’s systems. Volcanoes have changed the topography of the world and even destroyed civilizations. The effects on Earth’s systems by volcanoes that are currently active are more subtle, but they can still have an impact. Choosing an active volcano and hypothesizing about its impact on the environment around it would make an interesting project. Students can consider the impact to air quality, plant life and even the weather.

Chemistry and Volcanoes

A visually pleasing volcano project involves simulating an eruption. The intensity of volcanic eruptions varies widely and students can hypothesize which type of chemical reactions could cause the biggest eruptions. For example, a project could hypothesize that yeast combined with hydrogen peroxide would create a bigger explosion than vinegar combined with baking soda. Students, with adult supervision, can mix different components to demonstrate the power of volcanic eruptions.

Related Articles

How to Add a Variable to a Volcano Science Project
Interesting Science Projects
Solar System Science Fair Projects for Second Grade
5th Grade Projects on Volcanoes
High School Investigatory Projects
7th-Grade Science Fair Projects With Sodas
The History of Volcanology
What Kind of Volcanoes Don't Erupt Anymore?
Similarities Between the Different Types of Volcanoes
Animal Adaptations Around Volcanoes
Different Topics for Investigatory Projects
How to Build a Model Tornado
What Happens After Volcanoes Erupt?
Facts on Volcanology
Mauna Loa Facts for Kids
What Are the Results of a Volcano Eruption?
About Minor & Major Landforms
What Will the First Cities on Mars Look Like?
Plants & Animals Around Volcanoes
IB Chemistry Lab Ideas