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Mount Bur Ni Telong: Understanding the Volcanic Activity in 2023

An Overview of Indonesia's Stratovolcano

Mount Bur Ni Telong: Understanding the Volcanic Activity in 2023

  • 03 Jan, 2026
  • 298

Mount Bur Ni Telong: Latest Updates

Recently, Indonesian authorities heightened the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong due to a noticeable increase in seismic activity, including numerous earthquakes. This heightened alert underscores the potential hazards posed by this active volcano.

About Mount Bur Ni Telong

Located in Indonesia's westernmost province of Aceh, Mount Bur Ni Telong is an active stratovolcano standing approximately 2,624 meters above sea level. This conical volcano is situated at the southern base of the massive Bur ni Geureudong volcanic complex, one of the largest in northern Sumatra.

The stratovolcano's structure consists of multiple layers of lava and eruptive materials, which contribute to its susceptibility to explosive eruptions. As such, it is considered highly hazardous for climbers and nearby residents.

What is a Stratovolcano?

A stratovolcano is characterized by its tall, steep, and cone-shaped profile. Unlike flat shield volcanoes, stratovolcanoes have higher peaks and are typically found above subduction zones. Many of these volcanoes are part of extensive volcanically active regions, such as the Ring of Fire, which encircles much of the Pacific Ocean.

Stratovolcanoes constitute the largest percentage (~60%) of the Earth's individual volcanoes. They are primarily noted for their eruptions of andesite and dacite, lavas that are cooler and more viscous than basalt. This viscosity allows gas pressures to accumulate, often resulting in explosive eruptions.

Typically, stratovolcanoes are made up of roughly equal parts lava and pyroclastic material. This layering contributes to their alternative designation as composite volcanoes. At their peaks, stratovolcanoes generally feature a small crater, which may be filled with water or ice, or contain a volcanic dome during periods of inactivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What recent activity has been reported for Mount Bur Ni Telong?
Answer: Indonesian authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong due to increased seismic activity, including numerous earthquakes, indicating potential volcanic threats.

Q2. What is the height of Mount Bur Ni Telong?
Answer: Mount Bur Ni Telong stands approximately 2,624 meters above sea level, making it one of the significant peaks in Aceh province.

Q3. What defines a stratovolcano?
Answer: A stratovolcano is a steep, cone-shaped volcano formed by layers of lava and pyroclastic materials, often leading to explosive eruptions due to high gas pressure.

Q4. Where is Mount Bur Ni Telong located?
Answer: Mount Bur Ni Telong is located in the Aceh province of Indonesia, specifically at the southern base of the Bur ni Geureudong volcanic complex.

Q5. What is the Ring of Fire?
Answer: The Ring of Fire is a major area in the Pacific Ocean basin known for its high levels of seismic activity and numerous volcanoes, including stratovolcanoes like Mount Bur Ni Telong.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What type of volcano is Mount Bur Ni Telong?
A) Shield volcano
B) Stratovolcano
C) Cinder cone volcano
D) Lava dome
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: In which province is Mount Bur Ni Telong located?
A) West Java
B) East Nusa Tenggara
C) Aceh
D) Bali
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What is the typical eruption style of stratovolcanoes?
A) Gentle effusion of lava
B) Explosive eruptions
C) Continuous lava flow
D) Phreatic eruptions
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which geological feature surrounds the Pacific Ocean, including Mount Bur Ni Telong?
A) Mid-Atlantic Ridge
B) Ring of Fire
C) Himalayan Range
D) Great Rift Valley
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is the height of Mount Bur Ni Telong?
A) 1,500 meters
B) 2,624 meters
C) 3,000 meters
D) 4,000 meters
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What materials primarily compose stratovolcanoes?
A) Sand and silt
B) Lava and pyroclastic material
C) Granite and basalt
D) Limestone and clay
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: What geological process leads to the formation of stratovolcanoes?
A) Erosion
B) Sedimentation
C) Subduction
D) Weathering
Correct Answer: C

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