Cooling and Solidification
Cooling and solidification is the process by which magma loses thermal energy and hardens into igneous rock, a key concept in Amplify Science (California) Grade 7, Chapter 1: Rock Formations. When magma moves to a cooler environment—near the surface or into cold air or water—it undergoes a phase change called solidification or crystallization, transforming from liquid to solid igneous rock.
Key Concepts
The formation of igneous rock is a physical change driven by energy loss. When magma moves to a cooler environment—either near the surface or into cold air/water—it loses its thermal energy.
This drop in temperature causes the liquid magma to freeze and harden. This process is called solidification (or crystallization). Once the magma turns completely solid, it has transformed into igneous rock .
Common Questions
What is solidification in rock formation?
Solidification is the process where liquid magma loses thermal energy and freezes into solid igneous rock. It is also called crystallization when mineral crystals form as the magma cools.
How does magma become igneous rock?
Magma becomes igneous rock when it moves to a cooler environment, loses its heat energy, and the liquid solidifies. This physical change is driven by energy loss.
What is the difference between magma cooling underground vs. at the surface?
Magma that cools slowly underground forms large crystals (intrusive igneous rock), while magma that erupts as lava and cools quickly at the surface forms small crystals or glassy rock (extrusive igneous rock).
Where is cooling and solidification covered in Amplify Science Grade 7?
This topic is covered in Amplify Science (California) Grade 7, Chapter 1: Rock Formations, as part of learning how igneous rocks form through phase change.