Does cooler magma flow more or less quickly than hotter magma?

Generally, cooler magma flows less quickly than hotter magma. This difference in flow rate is primarily due to the viscosity of the magma, which is affected by its temperature.

When magma is heated, its particles gain energy and move more freely, which reduces its viscosity, allowing it to flow more easily. Conversely, as magma cools, its particles lose energy, and the increased interaction between them leads to a thicker, more viscous substance that doesn’t flow as readily.

This relationship can be seen in volcanic eruptions as well, where hotter magma tends to produce more fluid lava flows, while cooler, more viscous magma can lead to explosive volcanic activity, as it is less able to escape the pressure buildup from gases.

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