Types of Volcanoes

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What is a shield volcano?

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A shield volcano is a type of volcano characterized by a broad base and gentle slopes, formed by the eruption of low-viscosity lava that can flow over great distances.

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What is a cinder cone volcano?

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A cinder cone volcano is a small, steep-sided volcano formed from the accumulation of volcanic debris, such as ash and cinders, ejected during explosive eruptions.

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What is a composite volcano?

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A composite volcano, also known as a stratovolcano, is characterized by a combination of explosive activity and lava flows, resulting in a steep, layered structure.

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What is a lava dome?

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A lava dome is a mound-shaped protrusion resulting from the slow extrusion of viscous lava, often found within the crater of a volcano.

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What is a caldera?

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A caldera is a large depression formed when a volcano erupts and empties its magma chamber, causing the ground above to collapse.

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What type of eruptions are associated with cinder cone volcanoes?

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Cinder cone volcanoes typically have explosive eruptions that throw ash and cinders into the air.

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What is the primary feature of shield volcanoes?

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The primary feature of shield volcanoes is their broad, gently sloping profile, resembling a warrior's shield.

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How do composite volcanoes differ from shield volcanoes?

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Composite volcanoes have steeper profiles and are formed from alternating layers of lava flows and volcanic ash, while shield volcanoes have gentle slopes and are primarily built from fluid lava.

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What materials are primarily ejected during a cinder cone eruption?

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Cinder cone eruptions primarily eject volcanic ash, cinders, and small rocks.

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What is the significance of the magma chamber in a volcano?

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The magma chamber is a reservoir of molten rock beneath the volcano, and its emptying during an eruption can lead to the formation of a caldera.