Stratovolcano

A stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, is a tall, steep-sided mountain formed by layers of hardened lava, volcanic ash, and other volcanic materials. These volcanoes are known for their explosive eruptions, which occur when magma, rich in gases, builds up pressure underground and is released suddenly. The layered buildup over many eruptions creates their characteristic shape—rising sharply and having a symmetrical profile. Examples include Mount Fuji in Japan and Mount St. Helens in the United States. Stratovolcanoes pose significant volcanic hazards due to their explosive activity and the potential for pyroclastic flows and ash fall.