kerrostulivuori

Kerrostulivuori is the Finnish term for a stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano. These volcanoes are characterized by their steep, conical shape and are built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, pumice, and volcanic ash. Unlike shield volcanoes, which are known for their broad, gently sloping sides, kerrostulivuoret are formed from alternating eruptions of viscous lava flows and explosive pyroclastic material.

The magma that feeds kerrostulivuoret is typically felsic or andesitic, meaning it is rich in silica and relatively viscous. This high viscosity prevents the lava from flowing long distances, causing it to pile up around the vent. The explosive nature of eruptions is due to the trapped gases within the viscous magma, which can build up significant pressure before being released. These eruptions often produce pyroclastic flows, fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic debris, which are extremely dangerous.

Famous examples of kerrostulivuoret include Mount Fuji in Japan, Mount Vesuvius in Italy, and Mount Rainier in the United States. Their formation is often associated with convergent plate boundaries, such as subduction zones, where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another. The melting of the subducting plate generates magma that rises to the surface to form these iconic volcanic structures.