TYPES OF VOLCANO

• Shield volcanoes are formed by the pileup of non-viscous lava that oozes out from the volcano. Since lava can flow freely, a broad, slightly domed structure is formed that resembles like a warrior’s shield. Mauna Loa Volcano in Hawaii is an example of this type.
• Composite volcanoes are formed due to alternating solidification of both lava and pyroclastic deposits which makes it nearly a perfect sloped structure. Pyroclastic flows occur when these volcanoes erupt. Mt. Saint Helens in Washington, Mt. Vesuvius in Italy and Mt. Mayon in the Philippines are examples of this type.
• Cinder cones are formed from alternating ejected lava fragments and ash. They have a steep slope, wide crater on top and are the most abundant of the three major volcano types. Although small, they are also destructive since they release high amounts of pyroclastic materials. Mt. Paricutin in Mexico which has erupted in 1943, Taal Volcano in Batangas are examples of this type.
• Lava dome - also known as volcanic domes are common features in volcanic regions throughout the world