hotspot volcanism

Hotspot volcanism occurs when a stationary plume of hot magma rises from deep within Earth's mantle to the surface, creating a localized volcanic activity separate from tectonic plate boundaries. As the tectonic plate moves over the fixed hotspot, a series of volcanoes can form over time. This process explains features like the Hawaiian Islands, where the volcanic islands trace the movement of the Pacific Plate across the stationary hotspot. Hotspot volcanism provides insight into Earth's internal dynamics, showcasing how persistent mantle sources can produce volcanic activity independent of plate interactions.