- Shield Volcano: Built from layers of pyroclastic material from inside the volcano, including lava, pumice, and volcanic ash. The layers build on top of each other with each eruption. These volcanoes form as steep cones, rather than rounded shapes. The most destructive eruptions often occur with this type of volcano. Mount Saint Helens, Washington State, USA. In 1980, a huge eruption blew away a large section of this volcano and an avalanche was caused at the same time.
- Cinder Cone Volcano: The most common type of volcano in the world. They can sometimes form on the side of other volcanoes around a vent. They are small volcanoes. They usually have a bowl-shaped crater at the top. They are made of pyroclastic material which can come from inside the volcano during eruptions. Paricutin, Mexico. In 1943, a farmer witnessed the creation of this volcano in his field. It grew to 450 metres in height in the first year.
- Composite Volcano: These volcanoes are named after their shape. They erupt relatively quietly. Very runny lava comes out of the vent. The runny lava travels further than that from other volcanoes, which makes a wider base for the volcano. Mauna Loa, Hawaii. The most active volcano in its country. Erupted for 35 years from 1953 onwards.
- Lava Dome Volcano: Mount Vesuvius, Italy. Produced nearly 50 recorded eruptions since 1800.
- Caldera Volcano: Galapagos, Fernandina, Oregon, USA. Erupted in 79AD, completely covering two cities with ash and lava. Rises 230 metres above the surface of the lake where it formed.
- Stratovolcano: Mount Fuji, Japan. The largest active volcano on Earth. It stands at 3776 metres tall and has shrines and temples on it, even in the crater itself!
- Fissure Volcano: Wizard Island, Pu’u ‘Ō’ō, Hawaii.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of volcano worksheet pdf.
