Understanding What a Lava Flow Is
A lava flow is a stream of molten rock that moves across the ground during a volcanic eruption. Lava flows shape landscapes and create new land.
How Lava Flows Form
When magma reaches the surface, it becomes lava. Gravity pulls the molten rock downhill, forming rivers or sheets of glowing rock.
Types of Lava Flows
Pahoehoe: Smooth, ropy lava that flows easily.
‘A‘ā: Rough, jagged lava that moves slowly.
Blocky lava: Thick lava that breaks into large chunks.
What Controls Lava Flow Speed
Lava speed depends on temperature, thickness, slope, and gas content. Hot, runny lava moves fast, while thicker lava creeps slowly.
Where Lava Flows Occur
They happen on volcanoes around the world, especially in hotspots like Hawaii and rift zones where Earth’s crust is pulling apart.
The Effects of Lava Flows
Lava flows can destroy buildings and vegetation but also create fertile soil and new land over time. They reshape the environment dramatically.
Lava Flow Safety
Lava flows usually move slowly enough to escape, but they are extremely hot and dangerous. Authorities monitor flows to protect nearby communities.
The Simple Takeaway
A lava flow is molten rock moving across the surface during a volcanic eruption. Its speed and shape depend on the type of lava and the landscape.