What is magma?

Magma is defined as molten rock that exists below the Earth's surface. This substance is composed of a mixture of liquid rock, dissolved gases, and crystals. The presence of dissolved gases is significant because it can influence the behavior of the magma as it rises to the surface, potentially leading to volcanic eruptions. The heat from the Earth's interior keeps the rock in a molten state, allowing it to flow and accumulate in magma chambers. When pressure builds up, magma can escape through volcanic activity, at which point it is known as lava once it reaches the surface. Understanding magma is essential in geology as it provides clues about volcanic activity and the formation of various geological features.