Differences Between Magma and Lava, Definition, Types
The primary differences between magma and lava are determined by their location. Both magma and lava originate from the intense heating of rocks, causing them to reach a state of viscosity. Keep reading to know more!
Krati Saraswat27 May, 2025
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Differences Between Magma and Lava : The term "magma" refers to molten rock existing in an extremely hot, liquid, or semi-liquid state and is responsible for igneous rock formation. A significant portion of the Earth's mantle comprises magma.
When magma ascends to the Earth's surface, it transforms into "lava," also known as liquid magma. While magma and lava share commonalities, there are distinctions worth exploring. Magma, constituted of molten rock, resides in the Earth's crust. In contrast, lava is the term for magma that breaches the Earth's surface through a volcanic vent.| NEET Biology Syllabus | NEET Biology Diagrams |
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Differences Between Magma and Lava Overview
Magma and lava are molten rocks, but their locations and characteristics vary significantly. Magma refers to molten or partially molten rock beneath the Earth's surface. It is the precursor to igneous rocks in the Earth's mantle and crust. The temperature of magma ranges from approximately 700 to 1,300 °C (1,300 to 2,200 °F). Lava is molten rock reaching Earth's surface during a volcanic eruption. The liquid form of magma emerges onto the surface, and its temperature ranges from about 700 to 1,200 °C (1,300 to 2,200 °F).What is Magma?
Magma, the molten or partially molten rock from which igneous rocks form, is a dynamic and crucial component in the Earth's geological processes. It primarily consists of silicate liquid, with occurrences of carbonate and sulfide melts. Magma migration occurs beneath the Earth's surface, and during volcanic activity, it can erupt and reach the Earth's surface as lava. Magma exhibits diverse characteristics influenced by its chemical composition, viscosity, dissolved gases, and temperature. Silicate liquid is dominant, but variations exist with carbonate and sulfide melts. Suspended crystals and fragments of unmelted rock may be present, and dissolved volatiles can separate as bubbles.Types of Magma
Below are the types of magma:Basaltic (Mafic) Magma
- Temperature: High temperature (around 1,200 °C [about 2,200 °F]).
- Silica Content: Lower silica content (about 45–55 percent by weight).
- Characteristics: Basaltic magma is associated with nonexplosive volcanic eruptions characterized by flowing lava. It often forms dark-colored rocks like basalt.
- Volcanic Features: Produces lava flows with smooth surfaces, known as pahoehoe and aa flows.
Andesitic Magma
- Temperature: Intermediate temperature (800–1,000 °C [about 1,470–1,830 °F]).
- Silica Content: Moderate silica content.
- Characteristics: Andesitic magma is intermediate in properties, exhibiting characteristics between basaltic and rhyolitic magmas. It contributes to explosive eruptions and forms rocks like andesite.
- Volcanic Features: Associated with block lava flows and often forms more fragmented deposits.
Rhyolitic (Felsic) Magma
- Temperature: Lower temperature (750–850 °C [about 1,400–1,560 °F]).
- Silica Content: Higher silica content (about 65–75 percent by weight).
- Characteristics: Rhyolitic magma is linked to highly explosive volcanic eruptions, producing ash falls and pyroclastic flows. It forms light-colored rocks like rhyolite.
- Volcanic Features: Creates explosive eruptions and is associated with ash clouds and pyroclastic flows.
What is Lava?
Lava, the molten rock that emerges as a liquid onto the Earth's surface, is a captivating and powerful force in geology. It is not only the molten substance during volcanic eruptions but also forms solidified rock upon cooling. Lava's temperatures range from approximately 700 to 1,200 °C (1,300 to 2,200 °F), exhibiting varying degrees of fluidity, from almost syrup-like flow to extreme stiffness.Types of Lava
Here are the types of lava:Pahoehoe Lava
Pahoehoe lava flows are recognized by their smooth, gently undulating, or broadly hummocky surfaces. This type of lava flow occurs when liquid lava flows beneath a thin, still-plastic crust, creating tapestry-like folds and rolls resembling twisted rope. The margin of a pahoehoe flow typically advances by protruding small toes or lobes one after another. These flows are mainly fed internally by streams of liquid lava flowing beneath a solidified or partly solidified surface.Aa Lava
In contrast, aa lava has an exceedingly rough surface, covered with irregular fragments known as clinkers. Aa lava flows are primarily fed by rivers of liquid lava flowing in open channels. The feeding river forms a narrow band along the centerline of the flow, with broad fields of less actively moving clinker on each side. The clinkers at the front of the flow roll down and are overridden by the pasty center layer, creating a distinctive appearance. Aa and pahoehoe flow from the same vent can be identical in chemical composition, and the transition from pahoehoe to aa may occur as the flow progresses downslope.Pillow Lava
Another type of lava, pillow lava, is associated with underwater environments. It forms pillow-shaped masses as highly fluid lava is rapidly cooled and quenched by surrounding water. This phenomenon is common in underwater volcanic activity.Block Lava Flow
Lavas of andesitic or intermediate composition form block lava flows. These flows resemble aa but have more regular-shaped fragments, often polygonal with fairly smooth sides. Flows of more siliceous lava tend to be even more fragmental than block flows.Magma vs Lava - Differences Between Magma and Lava
The table below shows the differences between magma and lava :|
Magma vs Lava - Differences Between Magma and Lava |
||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | Magma | Lava |
| Location | Beneath the Earth's surface | Above the Earth's surface |
| State | Molten rock within the Earth | Molten rock erupted onto the surface |
| Temperature | Extremely hot (up to 1300°C) | Remains hot but can cool down |
| Composition | Silicate minerals, gases, and solids | Similar composition to magma but may contain fewer gases |
| Movement | Moves through the Earth's crust | Flows on the Earth's surface |
| Effect | May solidify to form igneous rocks | Forms volcanic landforms and structures |
| Occurrence | Found beneath the Earth's surface in magma chambers | Erupts during volcanic activity |
| Common Elements | Found in magma chambers below volcanoes | Observed during volcanic eruptions |
Differences Between Magma and Lava FAQs
In what geological features is magma typically found?
Magma is commonly found beneath the Earth's surface in magma chambers, often associated with volcanic activity.
What geological formations are created by the solidification of magma?
The solidification of magma can lead to the formation of igneous rocks.
During what geological process does lava erupt onto the Earth's surface?
Lava erupts onto the Earth's surface during volcanic activity when pressure forces it through openings in its crust.
Can magma turn back into solid rock?
Yes, when magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth's surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks. Similarly, lava that cools on the Earth's surface forms extrusive igneous rocks.
Can the composition of magma and lava vary?
Yes, both magma and lava can have varying compositions. They are primarily composed of silicate minerals, but the specific minerals, gases, and water content can differ, influencing the nature of volcanic eruptions.
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