If a body of magma undergoes fractional crystallization, the first rock that crystallizes from the magma will be __________ .
A)identical in chemical composition to the magma
B)more mafic than the magma
C)more felsic than the magma
D)The composition of the rock is not predictable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fractional crystallization is the process in which a magma cools and minerals crystallize out of it in a systematic order. The first minerals to crystallize are typically the ones with the highest melting points, which are usually more mafic than the magma. As these minerals are removed from the magma, the remaining magma becomes more felsic in composition. Therefore, the first rock that crystallizes from the magma will be more mafic than the magma.

If a Body of Magma Undergoes Fractional Crystallization, the First