QQuestionGeology
QuestionGeology
What is scoria, and how does it differ from pumice?
A. Scoria is a vesicular ejecta that is produced from mafic magma. Although pumice is also vesicular, it differs from scoria in that pumice is felsic.
B. A change in the composition of gases being released.
C. Lava from shield volcanoes is mafic and has a low viscosity.
D. A conduit is the circular path through which magma ascends to the vent, which is the surface opening of the conduit. A crater is a funnel-shaped depression around the vent.
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Answer
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Step 1: Understanding the concepts of scoria and pumice
Scoria and pumice are both types of volcanic ejecta, formed as a result of the eruption of magma. They are characterized by the presence of numerous gas-filled cavities or vesicles, which give them a lightweight and porous texture.
Step 2: Differentiating scoria and pumice based on magma composition
The main difference between scoria and pumice lies in the composition of the magma from which they originate. Scoria is produced from mafic magma, which is high in iron and magnesium content. In contrast, pumice is formed from felsic magma, which has a higher silica content.
Final Answer
Scoria and pumice are both volcanic ejecta with numerous vesicles, but they differ in their magma composition. Scoria is produced from mafic magma and has a darker color and higher density, while pumice is formed from felsic magma, is light-colored, and has a lower density. The higher vesicularity of pumice is due to the higher gas content and more rapid cooling of felsic magma.
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