The steep, upper slopes of composite volcanoes are generally produced by _______ .

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The steep, upper slopes of composite volcanoes are generally produced by high-viscosity, low-volume silicic magmas that are erupted from the summit. As the magma cools quickly and hardens, it creates steep slopes. Satellite or parasitic cones are typically found on the flanks of the volcano, not on the steep upper slopes. Landslides can modify the shape of the volcano but are not the primary cause of steep upper slopes. Tilting of the summit by intrusion of high-viscosity magma directly below the summit is possible but not the primary cause of steep upper slopes.

The Steep, Upper Slopes of Composite Volcanoes Are Generally Produced