L2.2.2: Flow of Molten Material

• ● Density Contrast

  ○ Magma rises faster when the difference in density between the magma and the surrounding rock is greater. The molten material must be less dense compared to its surrounding rock for it to rise.
• Factor = Effect to Viscosity

  Increasing Temperature = Decreasing

  Increasing Silica Content = Increasing

  Increasing Volatile Content = Decreasing
• ● Temperature

  ○ Higher temperature easily dissolves the minerals and crystals making the magma more liquidized.
• ● Silica Content (SiO2 )

  ○ Major component of lithosphere

  ○ Higher = more viscous
• ● Volatile Content

  ○ Low gas content means the molecules are packed more tightly meaning the material will be denser.