Types of Volcanoes

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What is a Shield Volcano?

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A type of volcano characterized by its broad, gently sloping sides formed by the eruption of low-viscosity lava that can flow long distances.

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What is a Cinder Cone Volcano?

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A type of volcano that is steep and conical, built from the accumulation of volcanic ash, cinders, and small rocks ejected during explosive eruptions.

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What is a Composite Volcano?

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A volcano that is formed from alternating layers of lava flow, ash, and other volcanic debris, often resulting in a steep profile.

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What is Lava Viscosity?

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A measure of a lava's resistance to flow; high viscosity means it flows slowly, while low viscosity means it flows easily.

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What type of lava is A'a?

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A type of lava that has high viscosity, flows slowly, and has a rough, jagged surface.

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What type of lava is Pahoehoe?

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A type of lava that has low viscosity, flows easily, and has a smooth, ropy surface.

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What is Pyroclastic Flow?

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A fast-moving current of hot gas and volcanic matter that flows down the slopes of a volcano during an explosive eruption.

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What are the main components of a Cinder Cone Volcano?

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Ash, cinders, and volcanic rocks that accumulate around a single vent.

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How does a Shield Volcano differ from a Composite Volcano?

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A Shield Volcano has gentle slopes and is built from low-viscosity lava, while a Composite Volcano has steeper slopes and is formed from alternating layers of lava and ash.

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What is the significance of a volcano's shape?

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The shape of a volcano indicates its eruption style and the type of materials that compose it.