Earth Science Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 400

Which of the following volcano types is primarily built up by explosive eruptions and steep, conical shape?

Shield

Composite

The composite volcano, also known as a stratovolcano, is primarily characterized by its explosive eruptions and steep, conical shape. This type of volcano is formed from alternating layers of lava flows, volcanic ash, and tephra, which contribute to its tall and steep profile. The eruptions from composite volcanoes are typically more violent due to the high viscosity of the magma involved, which can trap gases until pressure builds up and leads to explosive activity.

This explosive nature is a key distinguishing feature of composite volcanoes, setting them apart from other types like shield volcanoes, which have broad, gentle slopes and produce less explosive eruptions due to their fluid lava flows. Cinder cone volcanoes tend to be smaller and built up from small fragments of lava that are ejected during eruptions, resulting in a steep but smaller cone shape. Lava domes, while steep, are formed from the slow accumulation of highly viscous lava, resulting in a different structure and eruption style. Thus, the steep, conical shape combined with explosive eruptions distinctly characterizes composite volcanoes.

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Cinder Cone

Lava Dome

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