Opens in a new tab

Magmatic Differentiation

Magmatic differentiation is the process by which a single magma evolves into multiple different types of igneous rocks through mechanisms such as fractional crystallization, assimilation, and magma mixing. This process is key to understanding the diversity of igneous rocks and the formation of complex volcanic and plutonic bodies. 

Reference: Winter, J. D. (2010). “Principles of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology.” Pearson. 

← Back to the Glossary

join.me

Geology made clear, in your inbox.

Get clear, visual explainers on rocks, minerals, deep time, and the most fascinating parts of Earth science from Geoscopy.