Submarine extrusion of lava produces a characteristic "pillow lava" morphology, as seen here on Lōʻihi seamount SE of the island of Hawaii. Thin streams of molten lava are extruded in a form that resembles toothpaste squeezed out of a tube. The outer surface of the lava is quickly chilled by the water and solidifies, while the interior remains molten and continues to flow, lengthening the tubes.

Photo by the Hawaii Undersea Research Laboratory (University of Hawaii).

This image is made available under the Public Domain Dedication CC0 license, but proper attribution is appreciated.

Galleries: Lava Flows

Keywords: lava | submarine eruption | pillow lava | submarine volcano

Kama'ehuakanaloa