Types of Volcanoes

Front

What is viscosity in relation to lava?

Back

Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of lava. Higher silica content in lava increases its viscosity.

Front

What is magma?

Back

Magma is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth's crust.

Front

What type of volcano is characterized by broad, gentle slopes and primarily erupts lava flows?

Back

A shield volcano.

Front

What type of volcano is formed from explosive eruptions and has steep slopes?

Back

A composite volcano.

Front

What type of volcano is typically small and built from cinders and ash?

Back

A cinder cone volcano.

Front

How does the silica content in lava affect its eruption style?

Back

Lava with high silica content is more viscous and tends to produce explosive eruptions.

Front

What is the primary feature of a shield volcano?

Back

Shield volcanoes have broad, gently sloping sides and are primarily built from low-viscosity lava flows.

Front

What is the primary feature of a composite volcano?

Back

Composite volcanoes are characterized by alternating layers of lava flows and volcanic ash, resulting in steep profiles.

Front

What is the difference between lava and magma?

Back

Lava is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth's surface, while magma is molten rock that is still beneath the surface.

Front

What type of eruption is likely to occur with low-viscosity lava?

Back

A quiet eruption.