Cinder cones are a type of volcano characterized by their steep, conical shape. They are formed from volcanic debris, such as ash and small rocks, that accumulate around a single vent. When magma erupts, it breaks into small fragments that cool quickly and fall back to the ground, creating the cone structure. These volcanoes are typically smaller than other types, like shield volcanoes or stratovolcanoes, and can reach heights of up to 1,000 feet. Cinder cones often have a bowl-shaped crater at the summit and can erupt explosively, producing lava fountains and ash clouds.