What is the approximate temperature of lava and magma? I find many different numbers on the internet. However, it is difficult for me to estimate the reliability of this.
Asker: Henrieke, 15 years old
Answer
The temperature of a magma or lava depends on its composition, and can vary between just under 600 °C and 1250 °C. Basaltic magma/lava is the most common type and also has the highest temperatures: about 1000 – 1250 °C. Magmas with a different composition are slightly less hot. The lowest temperatures (around 600 °C or even less) can be found in the Zng. carbonatitic lavas from the Oldoynio Lengai volcano in Tanzania.
Answered by
Karen Fontijn
Geology – Volcanology
university of Ghent
http://www.ugent.be
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