What type of volcano typically releases a large volume of ash during eruptions?

Composite volcanoes, also known as stratovolcanoes, are characterized by their steep profiles and periodic explosive eruptions that release substantial amounts of ash and volcanic debris. These volcanoes form from alternating layers of lava flows, ash, and other volcanic materials, which build up over time to create their iconic structure.

During eruptions, the magma in composite volcanoes is typically high in viscosity, often due to the presence of more silica. This high viscosity can trap gases within the magma, leading to pressure buildup. When this pressure is released during an eruption, it often results in explosive events that eject large volumes of ash and pyroclastic material into the atmosphere. This is markedly different from other types of volcanoes, such as shield volcanoes, which tend to produce relatively gentle lava flows and release far less ash compared to the explosive activity of composite volcanoes.

Dormant volcanoes may not currently be erupting, and therefore do not consistently produce ash. Ash-cinder volcanoes, which are typically smaller and form from the accumulation of volcanic ash and cinders, generally do not produce the same scale of ash volume observed in composite volcanoes.