what is the difference between magma and lava?
What is the difference between magma and lava?
Answer:
Magma and lava are both molten rock materials, but they differ in location and state. Here are the differences between magma and lava:
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Location: Magma is found beneath the Earth’s surface, usually in the Earth’s mantle or crust. It lies in reservoirs called magma chambers. On the other hand, lava is molten rock that reaches the Earth’s surface during a volcanic eruption.
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State: Magma is in a molten state beneath the surface due to high temperatures and pressure. When this molten rock is ejected onto the surface during a volcanic eruption, it is called lava. In essence, magma becomes lava when it flows out onto the surface.
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Composition: Magma is typically a mixture of molten rock, gases, and crystals. Its composition can vary based on the rock types and processes that formed it. When magma cools and solidifies on the surface or underground, it forms igneous rocks. Lava, on the other hand, is liquid rock that flows down the sides of a volcano during an eruption.
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Temperature: Magma is hotter than lava. The temperatures of magma can range from 1300°F to 2400°F (700°C to 1300°C), depending on its composition and location. Lava, when it reaches the surface, can range from 1300°F to 2200°F (700°C to 1200°C).
So, in summary, magma is molten rock beneath the Earth’s surface, while lava is molten rock that has reached the surface during a volcanic eruption.