Key Idea.
Section 1
Melting and Interior Energy
Creating magma requires melting solid rock, a transformation that demands a massive input of energy. This energy comes from Earth's interior, which remains extremely hot due to the planet's core and radioactive heat.
When solid rock absorbs enough of this internal heat, it turns into liquid magma. This distinguishes melting from weathering; melting is driven by the Earth's own internal power, not the sun.
Section 2
Transformation of Matter
Magma is formed from the recycling of existing rock. Any type of rock—even sedimentary rock found on the surface—can be transformed back into magma if it is forced deep enough underground.
This concept proves that Earth recycles its materials. The planet does not create new matter for magma; it simply repurposes old rock by changing its state from solid to liquid through intense heat.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
Melting and Interior Energy
Creating magma requires melting solid rock, a transformation that demands a massive input of energy. This energy comes from Earth's interior, which remains extremely hot due to the planet's core and radioactive heat.
When solid rock absorbs enough of this internal heat, it turns into liquid magma. This distinguishes melting from weathering; melting is driven by the Earth's own internal power, not the sun.
Section 2
Transformation of Matter
Magma is formed from the recycling of existing rock. Any type of rock—even sedimentary rock found on the surface—can be transformed back into magma if it is forced deep enough underground.
This concept proves that Earth recycles its materials. The planet does not create new matter for magma; it simply repurposes old rock by changing its state from solid to liquid through intense heat.