Question

Mafic lava tends to have low silica content. What is the consequence of this low silica content?

A) Increased viscosity of the lava.
B) Decreased temperature of the lava.
C) Enhanced flowability of the lava.
D) Reduced gas content in the lava.

Answer 1

Low silica content in mafic lava leads to decreased viscosity, which enhances the flowability of the lava, allowing it to cover greater distances when erupted. Option number C is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mafic lava, which has a low silica content, tends to be less viscous compared to felsic lava with higher silica content. Due to this low viscosity, mafic lava, like that of basalt, has an enhanced flowability.

This means that when mafic lava erupts, it can flow more easily and cover greater distances than lava with higher silica content. For example, as observed in basaltic lava flows, this lava can move over distances of more than 20 kilometers, suggesting that less silica equates to more fluid lava flow.