Composite volcanoes are:

• A. A shield volcano
• B. A tall, cone-shaped mountain with layers of lava alternating with layers of ash and other volcanic materials
• C. A plateau formed by lava flows
• D. A simple volcanic crater

Answer: (B)

Composite volcanoes, or stratovolcanoes, are built from alternating bursts of lava and tephra, so each eruption leaves a new layer of hardened lava, ash, pumice, and other volcanic materials. Because the lava is relatively viscous, it doesn’t flow far before cooling and stacking up, which over many eruptions creates a tall, steep cone. This layered construction gives the mountain its characteristic appearance and explains why it’s described as a tall, cone-shaped mountain with layers of lava and ash and other volcanic materials.

This contrasts with other types: a shield volcano has broad, gently sloping sides formed by low-viscosity lava that travels far, a plateau formed by lava flows is a flat elevated surface rather than a multi-layered cone, and a simple volcanic crater refers to the opening rather than the overall layered structure of the mountain.