Q. Consider the following characteristics attributed to stratovolcanoes like Mount Marapi:

1. Steep, conical shape
2. Frequent effusive lava flows
3. Layers of hardened lava, pumice, and ash
4. Explosive eruptions due to high-viscosity magma

Which of the above statements is / are correct?
Answer: 1, 3 and 4 only
Notes: Stratovolcanoes (also known as composite volcanoes) such as Mount Marapi possess a steep profile due to alternating layers of lava, ash, and tephra. They have explosive rather than effusive eruptions because of high-viscosity magma that traps gases. The volcano structure is built from multiple layers (strata) of lava flows, ash, pumice, and volcanic debris. However, they don't frequently have effusive lava flows as this happens when the magma is low in silica, which is rare in stratovolcanoes.

This question is part of UPSC Daily 20 MCQ Series Course on GKToday Android app.