What is a volcano typically characterized by?

A volcano is typically characterized by a weak spot in the crust where magma has reached the surface. This process occurs when molten rock, or magma, from beneath the Earth's crust finds a pathway to escape, which can result in the formation of a volcano. As the magma rises, it can lead to explosive eruptions or the steady flow of lava, depending on the type of volcanic activity.

The formation of a volcano involves the buildup of pressure from gases and magma beneath the surface, making it a significant geological feature associated with tectonic activity. Understanding this characteristic helps to explain various volcanic behaviors and formations around the world, including stratovolcanoes, shield volcanoes, and cinder cone volcanoes, all of which develop around these weak spots in the crust.