OVER the last week a new island has formed in the Pacific Ocean near Tonga. But, no, it is not because sea levels are falling!
Rather it is the consequence of a volcanic eruption.
A volcanic eruption allows molten rock, ash, and poisonous gases to escape from the earth’s mantle sometimes resulting in the formation of a mountain or island.
Jennifer Marohasy BSc PhD has worked in industry and government. She is currently researching a novel technique for long-range weather forecasting funded by the B. Macfie Family Foundation.