What is the difference between magma and lava?

The distinction between magma and lava is crucial in understanding volcanic processes. Magma refers to molten rock that exists beneath the Earth's surface, residing within the mantle or crust. It is a mixture of liquid rock, crystals, and dissolved gases. When this molten rock finds its way to the Earth's surface through volcanic activity, it is referred to as lava. Thus, the process of magma becoming lava marks a significant transformation as it erupts from a volcano and cools down.

This understanding helps clarify the geological processes involved in igneous rock formation, where lava, once cooled and solidified, can create various types of rocks such as basalt or pumice, depending on its chemical composition and cooling rate. The transition from magma to lava is essential for the formation of surface features and is a foundational concept in geology.