Question

which feature may interrupt the sides of a composite - cone volcano?
conduits
calderas
craters
fumaroles

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Conduits: Internal channels for magma, not a surface feature interrupting the side.
• Calderas: Large depressions from volcanic collapse, usually at the summit, not the sides.
• Craters: Small depressions at the summit (or sometimes side, but more typical of cinder cones; composite cones have vents/parasitic cones? Wait, no—wait, actually, fumaroles? Wait, no, let's recheck. Wait, composite - cone (stratovolcano) sides can have fumaroles? No, wait, the correct option: Craters? Wait, no, parasitic cones? Wait, no, the options: Fumaroles are gas - emitting vents, but the correct answer is craters? Wait, no, let's recall: Composite - cone volcanoes (stratovolcanoes) can have parasitic cones (small craters) on their sides. Wait, the options: Craters—small depressions formed by eruptions, can be on the sides. Wait, no, the correct answer is craters? Wait, no, let's check each:
• Conduits: Inside the volcano, not a surface feature on the side.
• Calderas: Large, at the summit after major eruption/collapse.
• Craters: Small depressions, can form on the sides of composite cones (parasitic craters).
• Fumaroles: Gas vents, usually small, but the question is about "interrupt the sides"—craters are more likely as they are depressions that can be on the sides. Wait, actually, the correct answer is craters? Wait, no, maybe I made a mistake. Wait, let's check the definitions:
• Conduit: The passage for magma, internal.
• Caldera: Large, summit - related.
• Crater: A bowl - shaped depression, can be on the side (parasitic crater) of a composite cone.
• Fumarole: A vent that emits gases, usually small, not a feature that "interrupts" the side in the same way as a crater. So the correct option is craters.

Answer:

C. craters