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Mount Etna Eruption: Europe’s Fiery Giant Awakens Again

Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano, recently erupted again, reminding us of nature's sheer power and unpredictability. Located on Sicily Island, Italy, it is one of the most studied stratovolcanoes on Earth, with a history of activity dating back over 2700 years.


Key Facts about Mount Etna

  • Location: Sicily, Italy (Mediterranean region)

  • Status: Most active stratovolcano globally and the highest mountain on a Mediterranean island

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its scientific and cultural significance


What is a Stratovolcano?

  • Also known as: Composite volcano

  • Structure: Built from layers of viscous lava, ash, and volcanic rocks

  • Eruption Style: More explosive than shield volcanoes due to the thicker lava

  • Etna’s Features:

    • Multiple summit craters

    • Cinder cones, lava flows

    • A large depression called Valle del Bove


Scientific & UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 1: Physical Geography – Volcanoes and Earth’s Interior

  • GS Paper 3: Disaster Management – Natural Hazards

  • GS Paper 2: Role of UNESCO and International Geological Significance

  • Essay: Nature and Human Preparedness

Etna’s consistent activity provides valuable data for volcanology, helping forecast eruptions and mitigate risk for local populations.


📘 Prelims Practice Question:

Q. With reference to Mount Etna, consider the following statements:

  1. It is a shield volcano formed by low-viscosity basaltic lava.

  2. It is located on the island of Sicily and has been erupting for over two millennia.

  3. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3


✅ Answer: B. 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is incorrect: Etna is a stratovolcano, not a shield volcano.

  • Statement 2 is correct: Located in Sicily, it has been active for around 2700 years.

  • Statement 3 is correct: It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


✍️ Mains Practice Question (GS Paper 1):

Discuss the formation and characteristics of stratovolcanoes. How do they differ from other types of volcanoes? Highlight Mount Etna's significance in global volcanology.

 
 
 

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