Here's why:
* Wrinkled Surface: Pahoehoe lava is known for its smooth, ropy, or billowy surface, often described as wrinkled. This is caused by the lava's relatively low viscosity, allowing it to flow easily and create these unique shapes.
* Mafic Composition: Pahoehoe lava is typically mafic, meaning it has a high content of magnesium and iron. This composition gives it a lower viscosity compared to felsic lava, which is richer in silica.
* Hardening: As the lava cools and hardens, it retains the shapes formed by its flowing nature, resulting in the characteristic wrinkled surface.
Let me know if you have any other questions!