Laavavoolusid

Laavavoolusid are streams of molten rock that flow from a volcano. When a volcano erupts, magma, which is molten rock beneath the Earth's surface, rises and is expelled as lava. The temperature of lava can range from 700 to 1,200 degrees Celsius (1,300 to 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit). As lava flows, it cools and solidifies, forming new rock.

The speed and behavior of laavavoolusid depend on several factors, including the lava's composition, temperature, and the slope of the terrain. Lavas that are hotter and more fluid, typically basaltic lavas, tend to flow faster and can travel further. These often form smooth, ropy surfaces known as pahoehoe lava. Cooler, more viscous lavas, such as andesitic or rhyolitic lavas, move more slowly and often break into jagged, blocky fragments, creating a'a lava flows.

Laavavoolusid can reshape the landscape dramatically. They can bury existing structures, create new landmasses, and alter river courses. While they can be destructive, they also play a role in the Earth's geological processes, contributing to the formation of new crust. Monitoring laavavoolusid is an important aspect of volcanic hazard assessment.