Q:
What are the four types of lava?
A:
Quick Answer
The four types of lava are basaltic, andesitic, dacitic and rhyolitic. Basaltic is further divided into pillow, a'a and pahoehoe lava. The primary difference among these types is the amount of silica they contain. Higher silica content results in slower, cooler and more explosive flows.
Continue Reading
Credit:
G. Brad Lewis
Aurora
Getty Images
Full Answer
Basaltic lava flows are the hottest and the most common, appearing as pillow flows when volcanoes erupt under water or ice. These flows build up, creating submarine mountains and islands over time. Rhyolitic flows are thick and slow, creating crystallizing rocks such as granite. Andesitic lava is common in the Andes Mountains and is an intermediate form between basaltic and rhyolitic. Dacitic is between rhyolitic and andesic in viscosity.
Learn more about VolcanoesRelated Questions
-
Q:
What is a super volcano?
A: A super volcano is a volcano that has the potential of creating more than 1,000 cubic kilometers of ash, pumice, and lava during a single eruption. Super v... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Where does lava come from?
A: According to the American Geophysical Union, lava forms in the Earth's mantle and flows to the surface through volcanoes. Internal gas pressure within the ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How are volcanoes measured?
A: Volcanoes are measured and reviewed through the Volcano Explosivity Index, or VEI, which determines the quality of the volcano, the volume of the lava, how... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is basic lava?
A: Basic lava, also called mafic lava, is a type of lava that consists of 50 percent silica. This type of lava is highly fluid and commonly creates large lava... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
What are some different types of Wise potato chips?
-
Q:
What are some types of low vision aids?
-
Q:
What are some different types of shampoo?
-
Q:
What are some different types of contract templates?
-
Q:
What are some popular types of Zen bed frames?
-
Q:
What types of products does Merle's Automotive Supply offer?
