What is the difference between "magma" and "lava"? Scientists use the term magma for molten rock that is underground and lava for molten rock that breaks through the Earth's surface.

Aug 6, 2023 · Learn the difference between magma and lava and explore their temperature, composition, and ability to form rocks.

Nov 20, 2025 · Magma stays underground under high pressure, while lava reaches the surface and cools quickly. Learn how their gas content and cooling rates create different rocks.

Oct 12, 2025 · Once the magma reaches the surface, it is called lava and can flow downhill, creating lava flows that can cover large areas. A key difference between magma and lava is …

When geologists refer to magma, they're talking about molten rock that's still trapped underground. If this molten rock makes it to the surface and keeps flowing like a liquid, it's …

Aug 11, 2025 · Both forms of molten rock differ in several aspects, influencing their behavior and impact on Earth’s surface. Magma consists of molten rock, minerals, and dissolved gases …

Magma is molten rock found inside the Earth, while lava is magma that has reached the surface. Lava cools rapidly, forming volcanic rocks, while magma cools slowly, creating plutonic rocks.

Magma is the molten rock found beneath the Earth’s surface, deep within the planet’s interior. In contrast, lava is molten rock that has reached the Earth’s surface through volcanic eruptions.

Magma, molten or partially molten rock from which igneous rocks form. It usually consists of silicate liquid, although carbonate and sulfide melts occur as well. Magma migrates either at …

Oct 2, 2025 · Magma is the molten rock found beneath the Earth's surface, often originating from the colossal forces within the Earth's mantle. Its counterpart, lava, is that very same molten …