Volcano Formation Simulator
Basaltic (shield) vs Andesitic (stratovolcano) — play with magma, gas, and tectonics
Mode: Basaltic

Controls

Tip: Basaltic magma is typically low viscosity → lava flows build a broad shield. Andesitic magma is typically higher viscosity + more gas → pressure builds and eruptions are more explosive, piling up layers into a steep cone.

Simulation View

Basaltic (Shield) VolcanoHotspot / Rift
Watch how lava layers build the landform. Higher viscosity traps gas, raising pressure until it vents explosively.
Chamber Pressure: 0.00
Eruption Style: Effusive
Height: 0 m
Width: 0 m
Legend
Fresh lava
Solidified lava
Ash / pyroclastics
Bedrock
Eruption style depends mainly on viscosity and gas. Basaltic = effusive; Andesitic (often subduction) = explosive/episodic.