Based on the provided information, when molten rock interacts with sand, not much significant happens, although some sand may stick to the surface.
While the question asks about magma, the reference specifically discusses the interaction between sand and lava, which is molten rock that has erupted onto the Earth's surface (whereas magma is subsurface molten rock). The effects described are based on the temperature difference between lava and sand's melting point.
Effects of Molten Rock (Lava) on Sand
When sand comes into contact with lava, the primary effects described in the reference are quite limited:
- Limited Interaction: Generally, "not much happens" to the sand.
- Surface Sticking: "Some of it will stick to the lava surface" as it cools.
- No Melting: The lava is typically "not hot enough to melt it" (the sand).
Why Doesn't Sand Melt?
The reason sand doesn't melt when exposed to lava, according to the reference, comes down to temperature:
- Sand Melting Point: Sand generally melts at 1550°C.
- Lava Temperature: Lava is typically around 1250°C.
As illustrated by the temperatures below, lava's heat is considerably lower than what is required to turn sand into a liquid state:
| Material | Typical Temperature/Melting Point |
|---|---|
| Sand | 1550°C (Melting Point) |
| Lava | 1250°C (Temperature) |
This temperature difference explains why, for the most part, the sand remains solid when in contact with flowing lava. The interaction is mostly superficial, resulting in sand particles simply adhering to the cooler, solidifying surface of the lava flow rather than being absorbed or melted into it.
