silicic magma

Silicic magma, also known as felsic magma, is molten rock rich in silica, typically containing over 65% silica by weight. This composition influences its properties, making it more viscous and cooler than mafic magmas.1234

Magma is a complex fluid system composed of silicate minerals, ions, and molecules. In silicic magmas, silicon and oxygen ions tend to polymerize, forming complex groups that significantly increase the magma's viscosity. This high viscosity can lead to explosive volcanic eruptions, as gas bubbles trapped within the magma build up pressure.3

Silicic magmas are associated with felsic rocks like granite and rhyolite. Their high silica content means they are often oversaturated with silica, leading to the crystallization of free quartz.2