a geologist in protective gear points excitedly at bright orange lava flowing down the rocky slope. The molten lava glows intensely as it moves slowly across the dark volcanic ground. As the lava meets the cooler air, its edges begin turning from bright orange to dark gray and black. The outer layer hardens and cracks while the inner core still glows with heat. A second scientist nearby takes notes while observing the cooling process. Steam rises from the areas where the lava is solidifying into solid rock. rock being formed by the cooling and solidification of magma or lava