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Composite volcanoes consist of alternating layers of ash and lava flows. Known also as strato volcanoes, their shape is a symmetric cone with steep sides that rise as high as 8,000 feet. They form along Earth's subduction zones where one tectonic plate pushes beneath another.

characteristic of shield volcano

Shield volcanoes have the following characteristics: basic lava, which is non-acidic and very runny. gentle sides as the lava flows for long distances before it solidifies. no layers, as the volcano just consists of lava.

Cinder cones are characterized by a circular cone of hardened lava, ash and tephra around a single vent. The cone is formed when volcanic material fragments and falls to the ground after being ejected into the air from the vent. Fragmented ash and lava build a cone around the vent as they cool and harden.