Characteristics, Distribution, and Measurement of Volcanoes

Question 1

Name and describe the three main types of volcanoes.

Answer 1

Shield Volcanoes: Broad, gently sloping, formed by low-viscosity lava flows (e.g., Mauna Loa).

Composite Volcanoes: Steep-sided, built from alternating layers of lava and ash, known for explosive eruptions (e.g., Mount Fuji).

Cinder Cone Volcanoes: Small, steep-sided, built from pyroclastic fragments (e.g., Paricutin).

Question 2

What is the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI)?

Answer 2

A scale that measures the explosiveness of volcanic eruptions based on factors like eruption volume, eruption column height, and qualitative observations.

Question 3

Where are most volcanoes distributed and why?

Answer 3

Mostly along plate boundaries, especially the Ring of Fire around the Pacific Plate, due to subduction and tectonic activity.

Question 4

List key features of a volcanic eruption.

Answer 4

Lava flows, pyroclastic flows, ash clouds, lahars (volcanic mudflows).