MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyHard

What is the primary mechanism responsible for the creation of 'Calderas' in volcanic regions?

A. Accumulation of highly viscous lava forming steep-sided domes
B. Collapse of the summit of a volcano following the emptying of its magma chamber✓ Correct Answer
C. Explosive phreatomagmatic interactions with deep groundwater tables
D. Lateral collapse of a shield volcano due to gravitational instability

💡 Solution & Explanation

A caldera forms when a massive volcanic eruption empties the underlying magma chamber, causing the unsupported summit to collapse inward into the void. This differs from standard steep-sided lava domes formed by viscous lava accumulation or shield volcano flank failures.

🚩 Report a problem