GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Shield volcanoes are more common at spreading centers or volcanic hot spots in the middle of tectonic plates (Figure 8.24). The magma that creates shield volcanoes is less viscous, so it flows much more easily. For this reason, the eruptions of shield volcanoes are non-explosive.

Detailed explanation-2: -Stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes have relatively steep sides and are more cone-shaped than shield volcanoes. They are formed from viscous, sticky lava that does not flow easily. The lava therefore builds up around the vent forming a volcano with steep sides.

Detailed explanation-3: -Nonexplosive eruptions are the most common type of volcanic eruptions. These eruptions produce relatively calm flows of lava in huge amounts. B. Vast areas of the Earth’s surface, including much of the sea floor and the Northwestern United States, are covered with lava form nonexplosive eruptions.

Detailed explanation-4: -Eruption Types and Classification Most shield volcano eruptions are nonexplosive (effusive), usually 0-1 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI), typically in the Hawaiian eruptive style. These eruptions produce fluid lava flows and may produce fire-fountains.

Detailed explanation-5: -What is the main difference between a shield volcano and a composite volcano? The main difference between the two is that a shield volcano is composed of basaltic lava while a composite volcano is composed of andesitic magma.