Ep 8. Yellowstone

How the Earth Was Made is an educational docu-series that explores the geological history of the planet in great detail. Each episode takes a closer look at a particular region on Earth and explains how it was formed over millions of years. In season 1 episode 8 titled Yellowstone, the show delves into the geological marvel that is the Yellowstone National Park.

The episode begins by highlighting the natural beauty of the park and how it's a popular tourist destination. However, the focus then shifts to how Yellowstone is located on top of a supervolcano, which is one of the biggest known threats to humanity. The show then transitions into explaining how this giant sponge-like rock below the surface actually forces hot molten magma to move up, creating a massive hotspot.

The episode then explains that this hotspot has been active for millions of years, and has led to a variety of geological formations such as bubbling hot springs and geysers that are found throughout the park. Additionally, the show explains how the park is home to one of the largest underground magma chambers on Earth, which is why the region experiences many small earthquakes. The team goes on to explain how this hotspot leads to the volcanic activity in the region, including the massive eruptions that have occurred throughout Yellowstone's history and the devastating effects they had on the planet.

The episode continues to explain how the supervolcano at Yellowstone is unique and extreme, capable of producing a catastrophic eruption that could affect the entire globe. The show details how this eruption, referred to as a 'super eruption,' could occur at any moment and has the power to bury entire cities in ash, alter global weather patterns, and even lead to a nuclear-winter effect. The show also explores the possibility of a super eruption happening in the near future and the immense damage it would cause.

Furthermore, the episode examines the long-term geological impact of Yellowstone's constant geological activity on the surrounding ecosystem. The show explores the Yellowstone Caldera, which is a massive, underground basin formed from the last eruption and the impact it has on the park's current landscape. The team also examines the recent geological changes happening within the park, such as increased hydrothermal activity and movements of the Yellowstone caldera.

The show ends with a discussion on the possible ways in which scientists are working towards monitoring and forecasting volcanic activity in regions like Yellowstone. The team also emphasizes the importance of understanding the planet's history and geology as a means of predicting future volcanic activity and potential disaster.

All in all, season 1 episode 8 of How the Earth Was Made is an informative and educational exploration of the geological marvel that is Yellowstone National Park. The show awakens viewers' curiosity about the planet's geological past and the impact such geological activity can have on our lives, underlining the importance of better understanding our planet and its history.