---
title: "Define volcanism"
subject: "Engineering Geology I"
chapter: 6
key: "semester_3/engineering_geology_i:define-volcanism"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/define-volcanism
site: BCT Engineering
---

# Define volcanism

Engineering Geology I · Chapter 6: Physical Geology

- Asked in: 2081 Baisakh (new course), 1 marks
- Video: [What Are Volcanoes and How Are They Formed?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_pDKyg5YKY) — ClickView
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/define-volcanism
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/chapter-6

## Question

Define volcanism.

## Short answer

Volcanism is the process where magma, gases, and fragmented rock rise from Earth's interior, erupting onto the surface through vents or fissures, or intruding into the crust.

## Answer

**Volcanism** (vulcanicity) is the set of processes by which magma, gases and fragmented rock rise from the earth's interior and are erupted on the surface through a vent or fissure, or are intruded into the crust.

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. Volcanism is best defined as:
   A. Sudden shaking of the ground along a fault
   B. Downslope movement of soil under gravity
   C. Breakdown of rock by weathering at the surface
   D. Processes by which magma, gases and fragmented rock rise from the earth's interior and erupt on the surface or intrude into the crust
   Answer: D. Volcanism covers eruption through vents or fissures and intrusion into the crust. (Key point: Definition)

2. Which three things does volcanism involve?
   A. Magma, gases and fragmented rock
   B. Water, sand and clay
   C. Ice, snow and rock
   D. Oil, gas and coal
   Answer: A. Magma, gases and rock fragments rise from the interior. (Key point: Materials involved)