Volcanoes grow larger over time as layers of lava and ash build up from repeated eruptions.

Every time a volcano erupts, it releases lava and ash that settle on the surface. The lava cools and hardens, adding a new layer to the volcano. Over many eruptions, these layers pile up, growing the volcano taller and wider. This slow process can create massive mountains that become stable until their structure can no longer hold, sometimes leading to collapses or landslides.