Question

What factor cause magma to be classified as basaltic, andesitic, or rhyolitic based on what factor?

Answer 1

The three classifications of magma are mainly identified using their silica composition. Basaltic magma has the lowest silica content of 45-55% by weight. This makes it the least viscous and least explosive. Andesitic magma has 55-65% , making it more explosive and viscous. Rhyolitic magma has 65-75% silica, and is the most viscous and catastrophic.

Answer 2

The answer is the amount of silica it contains.