Anatomy of a Volcano: A Visual Explainer
A single labelled diagram that maps the internal structure of a volcano and ranks the five classic eruption types by rising explosivity.
📌 Revision Pointers
Magma Chamber → Conduit/Pipe → Crater is the main vertical pathway; Dykes (vertical) and Sills (horizontal) are intrusive sheets cutting across the rock strata.
Eruption types rank by rising lava viscosity and explosivity: Hawaiian → Strombolian → Vulcanian → Peléan → Plinian.
Key markers: Hawaiian builds Shield Volcanoes; Peléan produces a nuée ardente (e.g. Mt. Pelée, 1902); Plinian gives the tallest eruption columns (e.g. Vesuvius 79 AD, Pinatubo 1991).
One diagram, two panels: the volcano's anatomy, and the Hawaiian-to-Plinian eruption spectrum.
💭 Conclusion
Volcano anatomy and eruption-type classification are recurring Prelims favourites under Geography — this diagram anchors both in one glance.