A volcanologist records eruptions every 12 years at site Alpha, every 18 years at Beta, and every 45 years at Gamma. If all erupted in 2020, in what year will they next erupt simultaneously?

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 21:15:40 +0000

When Will All Three Volcanoes Erupt Together? A Deep Dive Into Eruption Cycles at Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Volcanoes don’t erupt at random—they follow powerful, predictable patterns governed by geological forces. Understanding these eruption cycles helps scientists forecast volcanic activity, protect communities, and uncover the rhythms of Earth’s inner workings. One fascinating scenario involves three major volcanoes—Alpha, Beta, and Gamma—each erupting on a distinct rhythm: every 12, 18, and 45 years, respectively. If all three erupted together in 2020, when will they next rise in perfect synchrony? ### The Eruption Cycles: A Rhythm Deep in Time Each volcano marks its eruption cycle by timed intervals: