A cinder cone is a simple, steep-sided volcano built primarily from loose pyroclastic fragments, also known as cinders or scoria. These form when gas-rich lava is blown into the air and breaks into small, jagged pieces that solidify and fall around the vent. Over time, these fragments accumulate to form a small, symmetrical cone with a crater at the summit. ANSWER: (B) Loose pyroclastic fragments (cinders)
A ‘Cinder Cone’ is built primarily from: (A) Fluid lava flows (B) Loose pyroclastic fragments (cinders) (C) Mud and water (D) Solid granite
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Cinder cones are the most common type of volcano and are geographically significant for their small size and simple structure. They are built from “tephra”—specifically cinders—ejected during a single eruptive episode. As the molten lava is thrown into the air, it cools rapidly and traps gas bubbles, creating lightweight, reddish or black rocks called scoria. These fall and pile up at the “angle of repose” (about 30-35 degrees), creating the steep slopes characteristic of the cone. They are often found on the flanks of larger volcanoes or as isolated peaks in volcanic fields like Parícutin in Mexico.