Shield volcano

A shield volcano is a type of volcano named for its low profile, resembling a warrior's shield lying on the ground. It is formed by the eruption of highly fluid (low viscosity) lava, which travels further and forms thinner flows than the more viscous lava erupted from a stratovolcano. Repeated eruptions results in the steady accumulation of broad sheets of lava, building up the shield volcano's distinctive form.

Shield volcano

A shield volcano is a type of volcano named for its low profile, resembling a warrior's shield lying on the ground. It is formed by the eruption of highly fluid (low viscosity) lava, which travels further and forms thinner flows than the more viscous lava erupted from a stratovolcano. Repeated eruptions results in the steady accumulation of broad sheets of lava, building up the shield volcano's distinctive form.