Do volcanic eruptions change the ocean floor?
Very simply, yes, and drastically. Eruptions, in addition to creating most of the seafloor geology we observe (until it is covered by sediments), do a lot to the biology and microbiology of the ocean. Many times eruptions destroy biology that has been living in hydrothermal vent areas. But more often than not, eruptions flush the habitats beneath the seafloor of any microbiology living within the crust, allowing these microorganisms to find new homes, and colonize new areas. Also volcanic eruptions may create new areas of hydrothermal activity, and thus new homes to many different types of animals. (Giora Proskurowski) What is the smallest trench? The smallest trench would be one that had recently formed though Im not sure which trench is the youngest. As you can see all around the edge of the Pacific Ocean, most trenches are over two miles deep. (Jon Kaye) How long have seamounts been around to be flattened so much? Do seamounts still erupt? Some seamounts are forming through volcanic
