How to Identify Different Types of Volcanoes

What are the different types of volcanoes?

1. Shield volcanoes

2. Stratovolcanoes

3. Cinder cone volcanoes

4. Lava domes

Types of Volcanoes

Volcanoes are classified into several types based on their shape, size, and eruption style. The main types include shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes, cinder cone volcanoes, and lava domes. Each type has distinct characteristics that can help in identifying them.

1. Shield volcanoes:

Shield volcanoes are broad, gently sloping volcanoes built by the eruption of low-viscosity basaltic lava. They are characterized by their broad, shield-like shape and are typically found at hot spots or on the ocean floor. Their eruptions are generally non-explosive but can produce large volumes of lava.

2. Stratovolcanoes:

Stratovolcanoes, also known as composite volcanoes, are large, steep-sided volcanoes built by alternating layers of lava flows, volcanic ash, and debris. They are often found at convergent plate boundaries and can have explosive eruptions due to the buildup of pressure from gas-rich magma.

3. Cinder cone volcanoes:

Cinder cone volcanoes are small, steep-sided volcanoes formed from the accumulation of loose pyroclastic material, such as volcanic ash, cinders, and bombs. They typically have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit and are the most common type of volcano on Earth.

4. Lava domes:

Lava domes are steep-sided, dome-shaped mounds formed by the slow extrusion of highly viscous lava. They are often found within the crater of larger volcanoes or as standalone features. Lava domes are prone to collapse and can generate pyroclastic flows if they fail.