Chinese, Ethiopian scientists explore volcano

The Great Rift Valley in East Africa is one of the most seismically active places in the world. Chinese and Ethiopian scientists have begun an expedition to the Erta Ale volcano in the valley.

This volcano is one of the most active among dozens in the Afar region, and it's still emerging.

Temperature of 60 degrees Celsius made the region a "Dead Sea" of lava.

Scientists are excited to see an active lava lake piled up by emerged cinder.

Liu Jiaqi, head of China Volcano Institute,said, "Volcanic eruptions are one of the most important symbols of the Earth's vitality. Of all the planets in the solar system, Earth has experienced most frequent volcanic eruptions. That indicates that the Earth is in the prime of life."

An earthquake in 1978 caused a volcanic eruption in Afar region that divided the African continent and Arabian Peninsula by another one point two meters.

Scientists say their study of the structure of the Great Rift Valley and its volcanos, will give them a better understanding of seismic and volcanic issues in China.