Most of the active volcanoes on Earth are located underwater, formed when magma from deep within the crust rises to the seafloor. Cooling of the magma can create hydrothermal vents, where superheated and chemical-rich water spews upward, similar to geysers on land. Despite being in areas with no light for sunlight-driven food production, vent sites often support diverse communities of animals that have adapted to produce food using chemical energy, via a process known as chemosynthesis.
Choose from the sections below to further explore ocean exploration education resources on hydrothermal vents and volcanoes.
Explore fact sheets, essays, and stories from our explorers to learn more about the study of submarine volcanoes and hydrothermal vents.
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Access selected lessons about hydrothermal vents and volcanoes developed by scientists and educators during recent expeditions.
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View selected videos and images of hydrothermal vents and volcanoes from previous expeditions.
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Explore past expeditions focused on increasing our understanding of hydrothermal vents and underwater volcanoes.
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Learn about careers focused on the exploration of hydrothermal vents and underwater volcanoes.
Learn moreThe above items are only a selection of the educational materials highlighting hydrothermal vents and underwater volcanoes on our website.
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