The term ‘lava’ is also used for the solidified rock formed by the cooling of a molten lava flow. Lava, which is exceedingly hot (about 700 to 1,200 degrees C [1,300 to 2,200 degrees F]), can be very fluid, or it can be extremely stiff, scarcely flowing. Lava may be erupted directly onto the land surface or onto the sea floor or it may be ejected into the atmosphere before falling back down.

Understanding the Context

The solid volcanic rock resulting from subsequent cooling of the molten material is often also called lava. A lava flow is an outpouring of lava during an effusive eruption. Molten lava and volcanoes create some of the world's most mesmerizing scenery. Enjoy this 4k Scenic Relaxation Film of Iceland's newest volcano, Fagradalsfjall, as it oozes lava from the...

Key Insights

When we talk about lava, we are actually referring to lava flows, which are layers of liquid lava that form when a volcano erupts. When considering this scenario, the most common view is that of a terrestrial volcano that spews a fairly smooth layer of lava that slowly descends from the slope. When you see lava flow or walk on old lava, the two types of flows are pahoehoe and a’a. Pahoehoe (meaning “smooth lava in Hawaiian) is smooth, undulating, or ropey. Types of Lava - Pahoehoe and A'a - Science Notes and Projects The hardened formation is called " lava flow," whereas the material that still contains molten rock is called an " active lava flow." The rock formed from solidified lava (or magma) is called igneous rock.

Final Thoughts

Lava is magma, hot molten rock that flows through holes in the Earth's crust and onto the surface. Like magma, lava can be either viscous (~thick) or fluid (~thin). [1]