What describes a shield volcano?

Prepare for the ILTS Elementary Education Grades 1–6 (305) Exam. Study with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Gear up for success!

A shield volcano is characterized by its broad, gently sloping sides that are formed primarily by the accumulation of large volumes of low-viscosity basaltic lava that can flow over long distances. This type of volcano results in the largest volcanic mountains due to the repeated outpourings of lava that build up gradually rather than through explosive eruptions. The composition and characteristics of the lava allow it to spread out widely, creating the shield shape.

In contrast, other types of volcanoes have different formation processes. For example, small, explosive eruptions are more typical of stratovolcanoes, which tend to have steeper sides and are formed from a combination of lava flows and ash. Volcanic mountains formed primarily from ash accumulation describe cinder cone volcanoes, which are built up from volcanic debris rather than lava flows. Lastly, dormant volcanoes can refer to any volcano that has not erupted in a long time, but does not specifically define the structure or eruption style of shield volcanoes, focusing instead on the activity status.

Therefore, the definition of a shield volcano in the context of large volcanic mountains created by repeated lava flows is best captured by the description provided in that correct answer.

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