Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. The higher the viscosity, the thicker and more resistant to flow the fluid is.
Basaltic lava is typically characterized by:
* Lower silica content: This results in a lower viscosity, making it flow more easily.
* Higher temperature: The higher temperature reduces the viscosity of the lava.
Rhyolitic lava is typically characterized by:
* Higher silica content: This leads to a higher viscosity, making it flow more slowly.
* Lower temperature: The lower temperature increases the viscosity of the lava.
In summary:
* Basaltic lava: Low viscosity, flows easily.
* Rhyolitic lava: High viscosity, flows slowly.
Therefore, basaltic lava is less viscous than rhyolitic lava.