A large basin-shaped volcanic depression with a diameter many
times larger than included volcanic
vents; may range from 2 to 50 km (1 to 30 mi) across. Commonly formed
when
magma
is withdrawn or erupted from a shallow underground
magma reservoir. The removal of large volumes of magma may result in loss of
structural support for the overlying rock, thereby leading to
collapse of the ground and formation of this type of large
depression. Calderas are different from craters, which are
smaller, circular depressions created primarily by explosive
excavation of rock during eruptions.