Volcanoes And Earthquakes Questions Medium
A volcanic cone and a volcanic dome are both landforms that are formed as a result of volcanic activity, but they have distinct differences in their shape and formation.
A volcanic cone is a conical-shaped mountain or hill that is formed by the accumulation of volcanic materials such as lava, ash, and pyroclastic debris. It is typically characterized by steep slopes and a symmetrical or slightly asymmetrical shape. Volcanic cones are commonly found at the summit or on the flanks of stratovolcanoes, which are composite volcanoes built up by alternating layers of lava and pyroclastic materials. Examples of volcanic cones include Mount Fuji in Japan and Mount St. Helens in the United States.
On the other hand, a volcanic dome is a rounded or bulbous-shaped mound that is formed by the extrusion of highly viscous lava onto the surface. Unlike volcanic cones, volcanic domes are typically smaller in size and have a more irregular shape. They are formed when the lava is too thick to flow easily and instead piles up around the volcanic vent. Volcanic domes are commonly found in the craters or on the flanks of stratovolcanoes, as well as in calderas or volcanic depressions. Examples of volcanic domes include Mount St. Helens' lava dome and the Soufrière Hills volcano in Montserrat.
In summary, the main difference between a volcanic cone and a volcanic dome lies in their shape and formation. A volcanic cone is a conical-shaped mountain or hill formed by the accumulation of volcanic materials, while a volcanic dome is a rounded or bulbous-shaped mound formed by the extrusion of highly viscous lava.