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 volcanoes are found wherever fluid low-silica lava reaches the surface of the Earth. However, they are most characteristic of ocean island volcanism associated with hot spots or with continental rift volcanism. They include the largest volcanoes on earth, such as Tamu Massif and Mauna Loa. Giant shield volcanoes are found on other planets of the Solar System, including Olympus Mons on Mars and Sapas Mons on Venus.
Q8072
volcano
Concept
Q1250916
warrior
Concept
Q131559
shield
Concept
Q128709
viscosity
Concept
Q40157
lava
Concept
Q169358
stratovolcano
Concept
Q116269
silica
Concept
Q1161185
island volcanism
Concept
Q105131
hot spots
Concept
Q473935
continental rift
Concept
Q14831565
Tamu Massif
LOC
Q159762
Mauna Loa
LOC
Q544
Solar System
Concept
Q520
Olympus Mons
LOC
Q111
Mars
CEL
Q1473902
Sapas Mons
LOC
Q313
Venus
CEL
Q212057
Shield volcano
Concept
subclass of
located on astronomical body
highest point
located on astronomical body