Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

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What is the primary composition of magma?

Air and water
Liquid metals and rocks
Molten rock-forming substances, gases, and water
Frozen gases and minerals

The correct answer is: Molten rock-forming substances, gases, and water

The primary composition of magma consists of molten rock-forming substances, gases, and water. Magma is formed from the partial melting of rocks within the Earth's mantle or crust, and it typically contains a mixture of silicate minerals, which are the primary components of most rocks on Earth. As magma rises towards the Earth's surface, the pressure decreases and dissolved gases, such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, are released, contributing to the gas content of magma. This gas content can significantly influence the type of volcanic eruption that occurs and the magma's behavior. Additionally, water in the form of steam can be a critical component of magmas, often acting as a driving force for explosive volcanic eruptions. Understanding this composition helps in predicting volcanic activity and understanding the formation of various igneous rocks that are formed when magma cools and solidifies.