when a volcano becomes dormant it is...
A dormant volcano is a volcano which is not currently active (that is, not erupting nor showing signs of unrest), but is believed to be still capable of erupting
So it's also like taking a nap.
When a volcano becomes dormant, it enters a period of inactivity and ceases to erupt for an extended duration of time. While dormant, the volcano is still considered to be alive because it has the potential to erupt again in the future.
To understand why a volcano becomes dormant, we need to delve into the basics of volcano behavior. Volcanoes are formed by the movement of tectonic plates on Earth's surface. These plates can collide, separate, or slide past each other. When two plates move apart, a gap called a rift is created, and magma from the Earth's mantle can rise to the surface through this rift, forming a volcano.
However, the magma chamber beneath a volcano is not always fully supplied with fresh magma. As a result, the volcano's activity may decrease over time and eventually become dormant. This could happen due to various factors, such as changes in plate tectonic activity, a blockage in the conduit through which magma reaches the surface, or a gradual depletion of the magma source.
Determining if a volcano is dormant usually requires monitoring its activity over an extended period. Volcanologists analyze seismic activity, gas emissions, ground deformation, and other indicators to assess a volcano's state. If no signs of volcanic activity are observed for a significant duration, typically many years or even decades, the volcano is classified as dormant.
It is important to note that even if a volcano is dormant, it can still show signs of life. For example, there may be continued emissions of gas and steam from fumaroles or hot springs near the volcano. Additionally, dormant volcanoes can potentially become active again in the future if new magma rises to the surface and reawakens the volcanic system.
In summary, when a volcano becomes dormant, it enters a period of inactivity and stops erupting. This occurs due to various factors such as changes in plate tectonics or depletion of the magma source. Monitoring the volcano's activity over an extended period helps determine its state, and even while dormant, a volcano can still show signs of life and has the potential to erupt again in the future.