* Temperature: Basaltic magma is hotter than rhyolitic magma. This higher temperature means it will transfer more heat to the surrounding rocks, leading to greater changes in their mineralogy and texture.
* Viscosity: Basaltic magma is less viscous (thinner) than rhyolitic magma. This means it can spread out more easily, potentially affecting a larger area of surrounding rock.
* Composition: The specific mineral composition of the magma also plays a role. Basaltic magma is richer in minerals that are more easily altered during metamorphism.
In summary: The combination of higher temperature, lower viscosity, and composition makes basaltic magma a more potent agent of contact metamorphism than rhyolitic magma.
