What type of volcano is characterized as being small and steep-sided, typically less than 1,000 feet in height?

The type of volcano characterized as small and steep-sided, typically reaching heights of less than 1,000 feet, is indeed the cinder cone volcano. Cinder cones are formed from the accumulation of volcanic ash, tephra, and small fragments of rock that are ejected during explosive eruptions. These materials fall back around the vent and create a circular or oval-shaped cone, which is steep due to the angle of the loose materials that make up its structure.

Cinder cone volcanoes are usually the smallest type of volcano and can erupt relatively quickly, often producing short-lived eruptions. Their steep sides are a direct result of the nature of the materials that form them, which do not compact solidly together compared to the lava flows seen in larger volcano types.

The other types of volcanoes mentioned are characterized by different shapes, sizes, and eruption styles. Composite volcanoes, for instance, are larger and have a more stratified structure composed of alternating layers of lava flow and ash deposits. Shield volcanoes are broad and gently sloping, built up primarily from basaltic lava flows that result in much less steepness compared to cinder cones. Calderas are large depressions formed after a volcano erupts and empties a magma chamber