Types of Volcanoes

Shield Volcanoes

Broad, gently sloping dome

Formed from runny lava that flows a great distance before it hardens

Examples are Kilauea and Mauna Loa in Hawaii

Cinder Cone Volcanoes

Cone shaped, steep sides with a narrow base

Formed when rock fragments and cinders erupt from a central vent and then pile up around the same vent

Example is Sunset Crater in the U.S.

Composite Volcanoes

Cone shaped with concave sides, classic volcano shape

Has alternating layers of rock/ ash and lava

Formed from alternating violent eruptions and quiet eruptions

Examples are Mt. Rainer, Mt. St. Helens in the U.S. and Mt. Fuji in Japan