Final answer:
Volcanic activity in Colima is characterized by explosive eruptions caused by the subduction of tectonic plates, leading to significant changes in the region's topography, including altered landscapes and the creation of new landforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The types of volcanic activity occurring within Colima are mostly associated with explosive eruptions. Colima is known for its Volcán de Fuego, which has been one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico and in Latin America. The activity at Colima is primarily due to the subduction of the Cocos Plate beneath the North American Plate, which brings about the potential for explosive volcanic activity and the formation of stratovolcanoes. Such activity can significantly alter the topography by depositing ash and lava flows, creating or deepening craters, and sometimes leading to the collapse of portions of the volcano itself.
The effects of this activity have been substantial, leading to the significant change in topography over time. This includes ash deposits that can cover large areas, altering the landscape and sometimes adding fertility to soils, leading to lush vegetation after a period of recovery. However, in the immediate aftermath of eruptions, the environment can be severely impacted, with vegetation being destroyed and new landforms being created from the expelled volcanic material.