Is there a link between lava type and volcano shape?
Actually, the link is between *ejecta* type and the volcano shape. Volcanoes that eject lots of low viscosity lava are called shield volcanoes, because they form the shape of a shield (a big, shallow arc) over time. Lava domes are formed by high viscosity lavas, which harden quickly, and form high dome structures. Cinder cones are formed by ejecting volcanic rock that resembles cinders. Stratovolcanoes, also known as composite volcanoes, eject lava and other types of material in alternating layers. and form the high, sharp peaks you see in places like the Cascades.
