Mountains of Fire (Hardcover)

The erupting volcano is an awe-inspiring sight. For example, the Hawaiian volcanoes spout fountains of red-hot lava higher than the tallest skyscraper; the intense heat and rank smell of brimstone force watchers to keep their distance. The ground shudders, the roar is enough to drown out jet engines, and rivers of molten lave overtake forests, highways, and villages on their way to the sea.;Volcanoes are more than a violent fireworks display, however. There are countless factors that come together to form a volcano. The authors of this non-technical exploration divulge the latest findings in the history of these magnificent forces of nature, and explore why eruptions occur when and where they do. The text is illustrated with over 100 drawings, colour and black and white photographss of eruptions, ash falls, and lava flows. Each chapter opens with an eye-witness account of a major volcanic eruption or associated phenomenon.