What type of volcano is Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on Earth?

Mauna Loa is a shield volcano, built from broad layers of fluid basaltic lava.

Mauna Loa stands on Hawaii Island and is one of the volcanoes forming the Hawaiian Islands. Its Hawaiian name means “Long Mountain,” describing its enormous, gently sloping profile. Unlike a steep stratovolcano, Mauna Loa spreads lava over a wide area because its magma is relatively low in silica and flows easily.

The term shield volcano comes from the volcano’s shape, which resembles a warrior’s shield lying on the ground. Mauna Kea, Kīlauea, and Mauna Loa are also shield volcanoes, although they differ in age and eruptive behavior.

Mauna Loa is often confused with Mauna Kea, which has a higher summit above sea level. Mauna Loa is the larger volcano by volume and area, while Mauna Kea is taller when measured from its submarine base.