Here's a breakdown:
* Lava flows: These are streams of molten rock that flow downhill. While Mount St. Helens has had some lava flows, they are not its defining characteristic.
* Pyroclastic flows: These are fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic debris (ash, rock fragments, etc.). These flows are extremely destructive and were the primary cause of devastation during the 1980 eruption.
Therefore, Mount St. Helens is not typically characterized by a specific type of lava flow. It's more accurately described by its explosive eruptions and pyroclastic flows.
