Volcanic activity: When magma from the Earth's mantle rises to the surface and erupts, it can form volcanoes. If a volcano erupts in the ocean, the lava and ash can build up to form an island. This is how the Hawaiian Islands were formed.
Continental fragments: Islands can also be formed when a continent breaks apart. This can happen due to plate tectonics, the movement of the Earth's tectonic plates. When a continent breaks apart, pieces of it can be left behind as islands. This is how the British Isles were formed.
Coral reefs: Coral reefs are formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate from the skeletons of tiny marine animals called coral polyps. Over time, coral reefs can grow into large structures that rise above the surface of the ocean, forming islands. This is how the Maldives were formed.
Sediment deposits: Islands can also be formed when sediment is deposited by rivers or glaciers. When a river carries sediment into the ocean, it can build up to form a delta. If the delta is large enough, it can eventually become an island. This is how the Mississippi River Delta was formed.
Glaciers: Glaciers can also form islands when they retreat. When a glacier retreats, it can leave behind a large mass of ice. If the ice is thick enough, it can eventually become an island. This is how the Antarctic Peninsula was formed.
Artificial islands: Islands can also be created artificially by humans. This can be done by building a structure on top of the water, or by filling in an area of water with soil and other materials. This is how many of the islands in Dubai were formed.
