Geology - 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 and primarily composed of low-viscosity basaltic lava that can flow over great distances. They have the longest eruptions and are often found in hotspot regions.

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What are the characteristics of a Composite Volcano?

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Composite volcanoes, also known as stratovolcanoes, are tall, steep-sided volcanoes formed from alternating layers of lava flow, ash, and other volcanic debris. They are known for their explosive eruptions.

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What is a Cinder Cone Volcano?

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Cinder cone volcanoes are the simplest type of volcano, built from particles and blobs of congealed lava ejected from a single vent. They are typically small and have steep slopes.

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What type of lava is associated with Shield Volcanoes?

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Basaltic lava, which is low in viscosity, allowing it to flow easily and create broad, shield-like shapes.

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Name an example of a Composite Volcano.

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Mount St. Helens is a well-known example of a composite volcano.

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What is the primary difference between Shield and Composite Volcanoes?

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Shield volcanoes have gentle slopes and are built from low-viscosity lava, while composite volcanoes have steeper slopes and are formed from more viscous lava and volcanic debris.

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What type of eruption is typical for Cinder Cone Volcanoes?

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Cinder cone volcanoes typically have explosive eruptions that eject lava fragments into the air, which then fall back to the ground around the vent.

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What is a Fissure Volcano?

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A fissure volcano is a linear volcanic vent through which lava erupts, usually without explosive activity. They can produce large amounts of lava that spread over wide areas.

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What type of volcano is Mount Fuji?

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Mount Fuji is a composite (stratovolcano) volcano, known for its symmetrical cone shape and periodic explosive eruptions.

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What is the significance of the term 'viscosity' in relation to volcanic eruptions?

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Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of lava. Low-viscosity lava flows easily, leading to gentle eruptions, while high-viscosity lava is thick and can cause explosive eruptions.