The primary difference between magma and lava is their location:
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Magma: This is molten rock that is found beneath the Earth's surface. It is composed of a mixture of liquid rock, crystals, and dissolved gases. Magma can accumulate in magma chambers before it erupts to the surface.
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Lava: Once magma reaches the Earth's surface through a volcanic eruption, it is referred to as lava. Lava can flow out of volcanoes and solidify into various types of igneous rock as it cools.
In summary, magma is under the surface, while lava is above the surface.