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:
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 Are Spatter Cone Volcanoes?
A: Spatter cone volcanoes are created from blobs of lava thrown up from volcanic fissures. These blobs return to earth, pile up and form mounds around a vent.... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are the Positive and Negative Effects of Volcanoes?
A: Volcanoes have the capacity to produce widespread destruction by covering cities and towns with ash and lava. However, volcanic eruptions also create islan... Full Answer >Filed Under:
You May Also Like
-
Q:
What Were Two Types of Organisms in the Kingdom Monera?
-
Q:
What Are the Major Types of Soil?
-
Q:
What Are the Different Types of Coffee Makers?
-
Q:
What Causes a Volcano to Form?
-
Q:
What Types of Meals Can You Prepare Using Infrared Gas Grills?
-
Q:
What Types of Warranties Are Available for Hyundai Vehicles?
