Ígnea

Ígnea is a term derived from the Latin word for fire, ignis. In geology, it refers to rocks formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock, known as magma or lava. When magma cools beneath the Earth's surface, it forms intrusive igneous rocks, which typically have larger crystals due to the slower cooling process. Examples include granite and diorite. When lava erupts onto the Earth's surface and cools, it forms extrusive igneous rocks, which generally have smaller crystals or a glassy texture because of the rapid cooling. Examples include basalt and obsidian. The composition of igneous rocks can vary widely, influencing their color, texture, and mineral content. This variability is a direct result of the chemical composition of the original molten rock and the conditions under which it cooled. Igneous rocks are fundamental components of the Earth's crust and play a significant role in geological processes such as mountain building and volcanic activity. Their study helps scientists understand the internal processes of the Earth and its history.