GROUP II ; EFFECTS OF

SILICA CONTENT IN
LAVA

science - 9
 Introduction

In this lesson, we will talk about how the viscosity of

lava is notably impacted by its silica content. Lava with
higher silica levels tends to be more viscous, creating a
thicker and slower flow due to the formation of polymer-
like structures. In contrast, lower silica content leads to
less viscous lava, facilitating smoother and faster flows
during volcanic eruptions. Understanding the role of
silica content is essential in comprehending the diverse
dynamics and behaviors of volcanic activity.
 Learning Outcomes

By the end of the lesson, you'll be able to:

describe how the viscosity of a lava is

affected by its composition
differentiate lava with less silica
content to lava with high silica content
 MAGMA
Magma is a molten or semi-molten rock substance
found beneath the Earth's surface. It is formed
through the partial melting of the Earth's mantle or
crust, and its composition can vary widely. Magma
typically consists of three main components: liquid
rock (melt), solid mineral crystals (crystals), and
dissolved gases (volatiles).
vs. LAVA
Lava is the melted molten rock that reaches the Earth's
surface during a volcanic eruption. It is formed when
magma, which is the partially molten rock beneath the
Earth's surface, erupts and emerges onto the surface.
Lava is a complex mixture of various components,
including liquid rock, solid mineral crystals, and
dissolved gases.
 PART OF THE VOLCANO WHERE LAVA COMES OUT

• A crater is a bowl-shaped depression or

cavity, typically found at the summit or on
the flanks of a volcano, caused by explosive
volcanic activity or the collapse of a
volcanic structure. Craters vary in size and
depth, and they can result from different
volcanic processes.
• A caldera is a much larger and more
expansive volcanic feature than a crater. It is
a large, basin-like depression that forms

CRATER and a
following a massive volcanic eruption,
during which the magma chamber beneath a
volcano is emptied, causing the overlying

CALDERA structure to collapse.

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF VISCOSITY?
Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's
COMES FROM THE
resistance to flow or deformation. It
WORD “VISCOUS”
describes the internal friction within a
fluid as it moves or deforms. The
concept is applicable to various
substances, including liquids and gases
VISCOSITY OF LAVA
The viscosity of lava refers to its resistance to
flow, and it is a critical factor in determining the
behavior of volcanic eruptions. The viscosity of
lava is primarily influenced by its composition,
particularly the silica content.

The silica content of lava is a key determinant of

its viscosity, which in turn influences the
eruptive style and the types of volcanic
landforms that are created.
SILICA CONTENT
Silica content refers to the proportion of silicon dioxide
(SiO2) in a substance, and it is a crucial factor in
understanding the properties and behavior of various
materials, including magma and lava in the context of
volcanology.
In the Earth's crust, silica is a common component of
minerals, and it plays a significant role in determining the
physical and chemical characteristics of rocks. When
discussing magma and lava, the silica content is
particularly important in influencing the viscosity, eruptive
SILICON
style, and overall behavior of volcanic activity.
 TWO TYPES OF SILICA CONTENT IN LAVA
LAVA WITH LOW SILICA
CONTENT
Lava with low silica content is
typically associated with basaltic
composition. Basaltic lava is
characterized by its fluidity and
ability to flow over long distances.
The low viscosity of this type of
lava results from the relatively
small amount of silica, allowing
the molten rock to move more
easily. Basaltic lava often leads to
gentle, effusive eruptions.
LAVA WITH HIGH
SILICA CONTENT
Lava with high silica content, often
associated with rhyolitic
composition, is characterized by its
viscous nature and tendency to
produce explosive volcanic
eruptions. Lava with high silica
content is essential for assessing the
potential hazards associated with
volcanic activity and implementing
effective mitigation strategies in
volcanic regions.
 REMEMBER
SUMMARY OF LESSON:
Magma is molten rock beneath the Earth's surface, while
lava is the same molten rock that reaches the surface
during a volcanic eruption. The viscosity of lava, or its
resistance to flow, is influenced by silica content, with
high-silica lava being thick and slow-moving, and low-
silica lava being more fluid and fast-moving. High-silica
lava is associated with explosive eruptions, forming
landforms like calderas, while low-silica lava tends to
lead to gentler, effusive eruptions, creating features such
as shield volcanoes.
WHY DO WE NEED TO IDENTIFY THE VISCOSITY AND SILICA
CONTENT OF LAVA?
Knowing the viscosity of lava based on its silica content is
crucial for predicting eruption styles and potential
hazards. High-silica lava tends to be thick and explosive,
forming features like calderas, while low-silica lava is
more fluid and leads to gentler, effusive eruptions,
creating features like shield volcanoes. This knowledge is
essential for civil protection planning, land use strategies,
and minimizing the impact of volcanic eruptions on
communities and infrastructure.
END OF THE LESSON