A stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, is a large, steep volcano built up of alternating layers of lava, ash, and volcanic debris. These volcanoes are significant in volcanology for understanding explosive eruptions, volcanic hazards, and the formation of volcanic arcs.
Reference: Davidson, J. P., et al. (2007). “The North Atlantic Igneous Province: Stratigraphy, Tectonics, Volcanism.” Cambridge University Press.