Science: Volcanoes: Types, Formation, and Eruptions Worksheet

Question 1

What is a volcano?

Accepted Answer

A volcano is an opening in Earth's crust where melted rock, gases, and ash can rise to the surface.

Question 2

Name the three main types of volcanoes often studied in elementary science.

Accepted Answer

The three main types of volcanoes are shield volcanoes, composite volcanoes, and cinder cone volcanoes.

Question 3

Describe one feature of a shield volcano.

Accepted Answer

A shield volcano has broad, gently sloping sides because its lava flows easily and spreads out over large areas.

Question 4

Describe one feature of a composite volcano.

Accepted Answer

A composite volcano is tall and steep-sided, and it forms from many layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic material.

Question 5

Describe one feature of a cinder cone volcano.

Accepted Answer

A cinder cone volcano is usually small, steep, and made from bits of cooled lava and ash that pile up around the vent.

Question 6

How does magma become lava?

Accepted Answer

Magma becomes lava when it reaches Earth's surface during a volcanic eruption.

Question 7

Where do many volcanoes form on Earth?

Accepted Answer

Many volcanoes form near the edges of tectonic plates, where plates move apart, collide, or slide past one another.

Question 8

Explain how pressure inside Earth can cause a volcano to erupt.

Accepted Answer

Pressure builds when magma and gases collect below Earth's surface. When the pressure becomes too great, the magma and gases force their way out through a volcano.

Question 9

List two materials that can come out of a volcano during an eruption.

Accepted Answer

Two materials that can come out of a volcano are lava and ash. Gases and rock fragments can also be released.

Question 10

Why are some volcanic eruptions quiet while others are explosive?

Accepted Answer

Some eruptions are quiet because the lava is thin and flows easily, allowing gases to escape. Other eruptions are explosive because the magma is thicker and traps gases until pressure builds up.

Question 11

A volcano has wide, gentle slopes and lava that flows easily. What type of volcano is it most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

It is most likely a shield volcano because shield volcanoes have gentle slopes and are formed by flowing lava.

Question 12

How can volcanic eruptions change Earth's surface?

Accepted Answer

Volcanic eruptions can change Earth's surface by building new land, covering areas with lava or ash, and forming mountains, islands, or new rock layers.

Science: Volcanoes: Types, Formation, and Eruptions

Science: Volcanoes: Types, Formation, and Eruptions

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