Volcano structures

Shield Volcanoes

Broad, dome-shaped volcanoes formed by low-viscosity basaltic lava, characterized by non-explosive eruptions.

Stratovolcanoes (Composite Volcanoes)

Tall, steep-sided volcanoes with alternating layers of lava, ash, and tephra, known for highly explosive eruptions.

Cinder Cone Volcanoes (Scoria Cones)

Steep, symmetrical cones formed from cooled pyroclastic debris, characterized by short-lived gas-driven eruptions.

Eruption Style of Shield Volcanoes

Effusive non-explosive eruptions with continuous lava streams.

Examples of Stratovolcanoes

Mount Fuji, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Vesuvius.

Structure of Cinder Cone Volcanoes

Formed from loose accumulations of pyroclastic debris, featuring a bowl-shaped summit crater.

Eruption Style of Stratovolcanoes

Explosive eruptions driven by high-viscosity lava and gas pressure.

Hazards Associated with Stratovolcanoes

Include pyroclastic flows, lahars, and extensive ash plumes.

Magma Composition of Shield Volcanoes

Mafic / Basaltic magma with low silica content.

Relative Size of Cinder Cone Volcanoes

Typically rising less than 300 to 400 meters in height.

Tectonic Setting of Shield Volcanoes

Commonly found at oceanic hotspots and divergent plate boundaries.

Eruption Style of Cinder Cone Volcanoes

Gas-driven, explosive eruptions that eject molten lava fragments into the air.

Examples of Cinder Cone Volcanoes

Parícutin in Mexico and Sunset Crater in Arizona.

Shape of Stratovolcanoes

Steep-sided, symmetrical conical structures with steep slope angles.

Relative Size of Shield Volcanoes

Massive in volume and horizontal area, largest of all volcanic structures.