Hawaii's volcanoes, which erupt fluid lava, are classified as what type of volcano?

Hawaii's volcanoes are classified as shield volcanoes due to their broad, gently sloping sides formed by the eruption of low-viscosity lava that can flow over great distances. This type of lava, called basaltic lava, allows the eruptions to be relatively non-explosive compared to other types of volcanoes. The fluid nature of the lava contributes to the wide base of the volcano and the resulting shield-like shape.

In contrast, cone volcanoes tend to have steep sides and are built from more viscous materials, which create tall, narrow structures. Composite volcanoes, also known as stratovolcanoes, are characterized by a mixture of explosive activity and lava flows, resulting in a more symmetrical, high-profile shape. Dome volcanoes are formed from highly viscous lava that piles up close to the vent, leading to steep-sided, rounded structures. These characteristics distinctly differentiate shield volcanoes from the other types.