Structure of a Volcano

Volcano Anatomy and Features

• The highest point of a volcano containing an opening is called the vent.
• The region beneath the vent, where molten rock is stored before an eruption, is known as the magma chamber.
• The sides or flanks of a volcano that radiate from the main vent are referred to as the volcanic slopes.
• A conduit connects the magma chamber to the crater of a volcano.
• The part of a volcano that emits lava, gases, ash, and other volcanic materials is the vent opening.
• Any movement of magma towards or onto the surface of a volcano is termed magma ascent.
• The funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped hollow at the top of a volcano is known as a crater.
• Lava is the molten rock expelled onto the Earth's surface during a volcanic eruption.

Types of Volcanoes

• A cinder cone volcano is built from particles and blobs of solidified lava ejected from a single vent.
• The primary feature distinguishing composite volcanoes is their alternating layers of lava flow and volcanic ash, leading to a more stratified structure.
• Shield volcanoes are characterized by being built almost entirely of fluid lava flows, resulting in a broad, flat shape.
• Shield volcanoes are relatively safe because they tend to produce less explosive eruptions, allowing lava to flow gently rather than violently.