LavaColorViscosity Speed ofFlowRock FormedSilica ContenthighhighslowlightrhyolitelowlowfastdarkbasaltMagma TypesMagma Properties Can Vary Not all magma is the same. The composition and viscosity of magma can vary. These properties affect how fast the lava flows and the type of volcano that forms.Although magma is a complex mixture, it is primarily composed of silica. Magma can contain from 50 to 70 percent silica.aa - high viscositypahoehoe - low viscosityMagma ViscosityViscosity is a liquid's resistance to flow. High viscosity magma is sticky and flows very slowly. Low viscosity magma flows more quickly.Temperature Affects Magma & LavaHigher temperatures make magma and lava more fluid, lowering the viscosity. Pahoehoe is a type of very hot, fast-moving lava with low viscosity. Slower-moving, cooler, high-viscosity lava is known as aa.quartz silica50-70 %silicaquartz silica50-70 %silica014001002003004005006007008009001000110012001300temperatureviscosityDifferent Types of LavaMagma with high silica content has a higher viscosity and produces light-colored lava that later forms rhyolite. Magma with less silica and a lower viscosity produces dark lava that forms basalt. Properties of Magma© Copyright NewPath Learning. All Rights Reserved. 94-4535Visit www.newpathlearning.com for Online Learning Resources.Some photos courtesy of USGS.
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