Which natural phenomenon is known for causing rapid changes to Earth's surface?

Volcanoes are known for causing rapid changes to Earth's surface primarily due to their capacity to erupt, expelling lava, ash, and gases. When a volcano erupts, the molten rock can flow across the landscape, creating new landforms, such as lava plateaus or volcanic islands, in a matter of days or even hours. The ash and debris can also blanket large areas, drastically altering the terrain and affecting local ecosystems.

In addition to the physical reshaping of the land, volcanic eruptions can also lead to secondary effects, such as landslides and pyroclastic flows, which can further modify the Earth's surface quickly and dramatically. This rapidity distinguishes volcanic activity from other geological processes, which typically occur over much longer time scales.