Question:
How does the viscosity of lava affectits flow rate?
Replies:
The flow rate of a fluid will be determined by its kinematic viscosity,
which is the viscosity divided by the density. Lavas with lower kinematic
viscosities will flow faster. The densities of rocks and lavas are not all
the same; basaltic lavas, which make up most of the ocean floor, are
denser than the silica-rich lavas that make up most continental rocks.
Richard Barrans Jr., Ph.D.
Chemical Separations Group
Chemistry Division CHM/200
Argonne National Laboratory
9700 South Cass Avenue
Argonne, IL 60439
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