The aimof the course is the introduction of the 3-year students to the basic concepts of Volcanology and the comprehensive knowledge of the complex mechanisms of action of volcanoes. To understand the processes that contribute to the formation and evolution of magma in the mantle/crust region. A detailed description of the physico-chemical parameters that determine and control the eruptive behaviour of volcanic centres. The geotectonic environment of volcanic evolution in the context of lithospheric plate theory.
Classification of volcanoes - based on the geotectonic characteristics of volcanoes and their petrographic features; Volcanic series - understanding the physicochemical characteristics of the lavas.The importance and role played by parameters such as temperature-pressure-viscosity-flow velocity and lava form; Lithospheric plates and volcanoes - evolution of volcanism on a global scale according to the theory of lithospheric plate motion in time and space; Mechanism of volcanic eruptions - Mechanisms of magma ascent in the interior of the earth. The disruption of the equilibrium of volcanic systems is considered. Mechanisms of magma rupture and formation of explosive columns; Types of volcanic eruptions - A detailed description is given of the types of volcanic eruptions, taking into account various qualitative and quantitative criteria such as the mode of ejection of volcanic products, the dimensions and shape of the volcanic edifice, the rate of volcanic eruption and the degree of hazard; Post-volcanic phenomena - The types of volcanic products emanating from volcanoes such as steam, fumaroles, solfatars and thermometallic vents; Types of volcanic products - Morphological characteristics of lavas. Pyroclastic products (classification, transport and deposition); Space volcanism. Cases of volcanism on other planets. Cryo-volcanism and comparative study with terrestrial volcanism; Volcanism and Ecology - The relationship of volcanism with humans, culture and the environment; Volcanic hazards - examples of volcanic areas and the degree of risk they pose. Ways of managing and dealing with any form of volcanic hazard; Volcanoes as a source of energy - areas of geothermal interest, how they are created and the extent to which they can be exploited; Volcanoes in Greece - A detailed description of volcanic centres in various regions of Greece. Volcanic centres in continental and marine environments - Volcanism older than the Miocene - Recent volcanism Active volcanic arc of the South Aegean (Methana-Susaki, Milos, Santorini and Kos-Nisyros volcanoes.