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UNIT 5 PLACES
Geology - The geology of Iceland
Student information

This lesson links to the topic of tectonic plate movement and geodynamics, part of the
Geologa programme.

Starter Read the following quote and use your knowledge to explain the significance of the
highlighted sections:

No other country in the world has had as many volcanic eruptions as Iceland, or had
eruptions over such a large percentage of its surface. Every part of the island demonstrates
the impact of volcanic activity. It is truly the home of subterraneous heat. It is also the best
place along a line of nearly ten thousand kilometres where we can see geology in action and
the effects of the earths engine. The theatre of Iceland is like watching a television
programme showing us how the world has changed; Iceland should be given an Oscar.
Now read the text to see if your understanding of the quote was correct:

Iceland is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge formed at the boundary of the North American
and European plates and is a hotspot (a layer of molten rock). These tectonic plates move
apart, the American plate to the west and the European to the east across this hot spot. This
is why there is the possibility of eruptions on this small island. Iceland has more than 100
volcanoes, and more than 25 of them have erupted in recent history. Eruptions occur about
every 5-10 years and principally consist of basaltic lava. Some of the most active areas of
new crust formation are in the southwestern parts of Iceland and are easily accessible to
tourists. The trip from Keflavik airport to Reykjavik takes you along the edge of the North
American plate where it meets the European plate. At certain points you can see both sides
of the plate boundary at the same time with new rock that has risen from below. A flight
across the island gives you the opportunity to see new land forming.
Scientists have proposed various geodynamic mechanisms to explain the tectonic activity
that has formed Iceland. The most generally accepted theory is that the separation of the
plates is because of convection currents that occur in the mantle of the earth which produce
massive forces and the resulting friction drags the plates apart. Every year each plate moves
about 1cm, in opposite directions. Iceland is growing!

Photocopiable Pearson Educacin, S.A., 2011 1

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Check your understanding

1. Find words or phrases in the text with the same meaning as:

Separate (verb) Close to the present time Happen Created Very big

Writing

1. Working with a partner you are going to write a dialogue between two friends, Susana and
Jos, who are organising the 1Bac end of year trip. Susana is really interested in geology and
wants Jos to persuade their classmates and teachers to go to Iceland. Jos likes sun, beaches
and nightlife, and doesnt like geology.
2. Use information from the text and your knowledge of geology in your dialogue will Susana
be able to persuade Jos? Your dialogue should also explain why going to Iceland will help the
students with their geology classes.

Photocopiable Pearson Educacin, S.A., 2011 2