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Basic Geology/Volcanism

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There are three types of lavas formed by volcanoes — Mafic, Intermediate, and Felsic. But it is believed that the magma present at the magma chamber, means at the asthenosphere is of basic composition. When it moves towards the surface of the earth, the broken fragments of country rocks digested within the magma and its composition gradually changes from basic to acidic.

Mafic (Basaltic)

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  • %SiO2: < 50%
  • %FeMg: 4%
  • Temp: up to 1500C
  • Viscosity: Low
  • Eruptive Behavior: gentle
  • Distribution: divergent plate boundaries, hot spots, convergent plate boundaries

Intermediate (Andesitic)

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  • %SiO2: ~60%
  • %FeMg: ~3%
  • Temp: ~1000C
  • Viscosity: Intermediate
  • Eruptive Behavior: explosive
  • Distribution: convergent plate boundaries

Felsic (Rhyolitic)

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  • %SiO2: >70%
  • %FeMg: 2%
  • Temp: 700C
  • Viscosity: High
  • Eruptive Behavior: explosive
  • Distribution: hot spots in continental crusts (Yellowstone National Park), convergent plate boundaries
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