When a common type of basaltic lava hardens, it forms AA lava, which is characterized by its rough, jagged surface. This texture results from the high viscosity of the lava, causing it to break into angular blocks as it cools. AA lava typically flows more slowly than the smoother, more fluid pahoehoe lava, making it more challenging to traverse. Its appearance is often associated with cooler temperatures and higher gas content during eruption.
When basaltic lava hardens into AA lava, it forms a rough, jagged surface characterized by sharp, angular blocks and spiny projections. This texture results from the higher viscosity of the lava, which cools and solidifies before it can flow smoothly. AA lava typically has a lower gas content compared to Pāhoehoe lava, leading to its more fragmented appearance. Its formation often occurs during more explosive eruptions or in scenarios where the lava is relatively cooler.
Basalt forms when basaltic lava cools and solidifies at or near the Earth's surface. When basaltic magma cools and solidifies below the surface, it can form a type of igneous rock known as gabbro. Both basalt and gabbro are composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene, but they differ in their formation and texture due to their cooling environments.
lava
Volcanoes
Igneous rock.
Basalt is the igneous rock that forms when basaltic lava cools and hardens. It is fine-grained and dark in color, typically containing minerals such as pyroxene and plagioclase.
Kilauea produces basaltic lava, which is the most common type.
Basalt forms when basaltic lava cools and solidifies at or near the Earth's surface. When basaltic magma cools and solidifies below the surface, it can form a type of igneous rock known as gabbro. Both basalt and gabbro are composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene, but they differ in their formation and texture due to their cooling environments.
Pahoehoe
Lava plateaus form when fluid basaltic lava flows out of fissures.
lava
Volcanoes
Basalt
It's basaltic lava, not basic.
Igneous rock.
non-silicate and silicate minerals
Molten rock that flows onto the seafloor and hardens as it cools is called basalt. Basalt is the most common type of lava erupted at mid-ocean ridges and forms the oceanic crust.