The origin of life on Earth began over 3 billion years ago, evolving from the most basic of microbes into a great variety of complex organisms over time.
Just like animals, volcanoes go through a life cycle of birth, growth, decline, and finally death, just like people (they become extinct). Despite their reputation as destructive forces, volcanoes actually were essential for the development of life on the planet. Volcanic eruptions helped release most of Earth's water from the crust and mantle. They also led to the formation of the Earth's atmosphere. In addition to water and air, volcanoes took a big part in the formation of land, another necessity for many life forms. But what role does...