wiki Word: Shield Volcano |
Definition: A broad, low volcano shaped like a flattened dome and built of basaltic lava. Also known as a basaltic dome; lava dome.
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Facts, Details, and Examples: Shield volcanoes have a central vent and several smaller vents along the sides (see Fig. 1). Shield volcanoes have mafic lava and have a low viscosity, or tendency to flow. This means the lava in the volcanoe flows easily, giving the volcanoe its distinct shape. The shield volocanoe is formed by many lava flows that have hardened over time. The largest volcanoe in our solar system, Olympus Mons, is a shield volcanoe.
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Figure.1 |
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In the Classroom: We are learning about the surface features of Mars and Earth. On Mars is Olympus Mons, a shield volcanoe. We learned how shield and other types of volcanoes are formed and what their viscosity is, etc. We can now identify types of volcanoes by comparing the height to the width on aerial photos of Mars and Earth.
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Sources:1. Shield Volcano." Febuary 1, 2008http://www.answers.com/topic/shield-volcano?cat=technology2. Shield Volcano Picture-http://www.dkimages.com/discover/Home/Science/Earth-Sciences/Geology/Landform-Evolution/Volcanoes/Types/Shield-Volcano/Shield-Volcano-1.html
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Orginal Author: (first name, last initial and class period)
| Kayla per.2 |
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