The difference between lava and magma is that magma ____________.
A) is light in color, whereas lava is dark
B) usually has mafic composition, whereas lava usually has felsic composition
C) is found beneath Earth's surface, whereas lava has reached the surface
D) flows more quickly than lava

Question

The difference between lava and magma is that magma ____________. 
A) is light in color, whereas lava is dark 
B) usually has mafic composition, whereas lava usually has felsic composition 
C) is found beneath Earth's surface, whereas lava has reached the surface 
D) flows more quickly than lava

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Magma is molten rock found beneath Earth's surface, whereas lava is magma that has reached the surface through a volcano or fissure. Therefore, option C is the correct choice. Option A and B are incorrect because the color and composition of magma and lava vary depending on their location and mineral content. Option D is also incorrect because the viscosity of magma and lava determines their flow rate, not whether they are magma or lava.

The Difference Between Lava and Magma Is That Magma ____________