GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The most majestic of the volcanoes are composite volcanoes, also known as strato-volcanoes. Composite volcanoes are tall, symetrically shaped, with steep sides, sometimes rising 10, 000 feet high. They are built of alternating layers of lava flows, volcanic ash, and cinders.

Detailed explanation-2: -Composite volcanoes are also called stratovolcanoes. This is because they are formed by alternating layers (strata) of magma and ash (Figure below). The magma that creates composite volcanoes tends to be thick.

Detailed explanation-3: -Stratovolcanoes, also called composite volcanoes, are typically steep-sided, symmetrical cones built of alternating layers of lava flows, volcanic ash, and other eruptive products (see animation courtesy of Exploring the Environment).

Detailed explanation-4: -Composite or Stratovolcanoes (Fig. 5.14) erupt both lava and pyroclastic deposits. The slopes of stratovolcanoes are therefore composed of lava flows alternating with layers of pyroclastic deposits.

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.