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Letter MGeology glossary

Mafic Magma

Mafic magma is a type of magma that is rich in magnesium and iron and has a low silica content. It is typically less viscous than felsic magma and is associated with the formation of basaltic rocks. Mafic magma plays a significant role in the formation of oceanic crust and basaltic lava flows.

Hot molten lava cooling into dark rock (mafic magma)
Fig. 1 Hot molten lava cooling into dark rock (mafic magma)

Source Wilson, M. (1989). “Igneous Petrogenesis: A Global Tectonic Approach.” Unwin Hyman.

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