BASALT LAVA Meaning and
Definition
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Basalt lava refers to a type of lava that is primarily composed of basaltic rock. Basalt is a dark-colored, fine-grained extrusive igneous rock, typically formed from the rapid cooling of molten material on the Earth's surface. Lava is the molten rock that erupts from a volcano during an eruption or flows from a crack in the Earth's crust.
Basalt lava is known for its low viscosity and high fluidity, allowing it to flow easily and travel long distances before solidifying. It is commonly associated with shield volcanoes, which have broad, gently sloping profiles due to the runny nature of basaltic lava.
The composition of basalt lava is characterized by high levels of silicon and magnesium, along with lesser amounts of minerals such as olivine and pyroxene. These minerals give basalt a dark coloration, often appearing black or dark grey.
Basalt lava eruptions are relatively common and can occur both on land and underwater. When basaltic lava flows, it can impact the surrounding environment in various ways. For instance, it can destroy vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as create new land by adding layers of solidified lava over time. In addition to its occurrence on Earth, basalt lava is also found on the surfaces of other planets, such as Mars and the Moon.
In summary, basalt lava is the molten rock composed mainly of basalt that erupts from a volcano or flows from a crack, known for its low viscosity, high fluidity, and dark coloration due to its mineral composition.
Common Misspellings for BASALT LAVA
- vasalt lava
- nasalt lava
- hasalt lava
- gasalt lava
- bzsalt lava
- bssalt lava
- bwsalt lava
- bqsalt lava
- baaalt lava
- bazalt lava
- baxalt lava
- badalt lava
- baealt lava
- bawalt lava
- baszlt lava
- basslt lava
- baswlt lava
- basqlt lava
- basakt lava
- basapt lava
Etymology of BASALT LAVA
The word "basalt" originates from Latin "basaltes", which comes from Greek "basaltēs". The Greek term was derived from the Egyptian word "bêtel", meaning "iron". This is because the Greeks believed basalt contained large quantities of iron. The word "lava" has its roots in Italian, derived from the Latin word "lavāre", meaning "to wash". It refers to molten rock that is ejected from a volcano during an eruption and then solidifies upon cooling. Hence, "basalt lava" refers to the volcanic rock basalt in its molten or liquid state.
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