The Ring of Fire
Earth’s Fiery Circle
The Ring of Fire is a huge horseshoe-shaped area that goes around the edges of the Pacific Ocean. It is called the Ring of Fire because this region has many volcanoes and frequent earthquakes. In fact, about 75% of the world’s active volcanoes are found here!
Why Is It Called the Ring of Fire?
The Ring of Fire looks like a giant ring on a map. It is full of:
Volcanoes that erupt with lava and ash
Earthquakes that shake the ground
These happen because the Earth’s surface is made of big moving pieces called tectonic plates. When these plates bump into each other, slide past one another, or sink under another plate, they cause volcanoes and earthquakes.
Earthquakes and the Ring of Fire
Most of the world’s strongest earthquakes happen in the Ring of Fire. When tectonic plates suddenly move, they release energy that shakes the ground. This is called an earthquake.
Volcanoes in the Ring of Fire
The Ring of Fire is home to many of the world’s most famous and powerful volcanoes. Some well-known ones include Mount Fuji in Japan, Mount St. Helens in the United States, and Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines.
Where Is the Ring of Fire?
The Ring of Fire passes through many countries, including: Japan, Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand, United States (West Coast & Alaska), Mexico, Chile.
People living in these places often learn how to stay safe during earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.