Types of volcanoes

Volcano

An opening in the Earth's surface through which molten rock, ash, and gases can escape.

Main vent

The main tube that connects the magma chamber to the surface.

Lava

Molten rock after it reaches the surface.

Magma chamber

Store of underground magma.

Secondary vent

Place where magma reaches the surface without going through the main vent.

Pyroclastic flow

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

Crater

Circular depression at the top of the volcano.

Composite volcano

Tall mountains made of lava, pyroclastic deposits, and strata from explosive eruptions; common in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Cinder cone

A type of volcano formed by ejected lava fragments known as cinders.

Shield volcano

A type of volcano formed by low-viscosity lava that creates a dome-like structure.

Volcanic bombs

Rocks and larger debris that are thrown into the air during an eruption.

Ash, steam, & gas

Cloud pushed out of the volcano during an eruption.

Magma

Molten rock still beneath the ground.