Igneous processes refer to the formation of rocks through the cooling and solidification of molten material called magma. When magma rises to the Earth's surface, it can erupt as lava during a volcanic eruption. As the lava cools, it crystallizes to form igneous rocks, which can be classified as either intrusive or extrusive, depending on where the cooling occurs. Intrusive igneous rocks, like granite, form beneath the Earth's surface when magma cools slowly, allowing large crystals to develop. In contrast, extrusive igneous rocks, such as basalt, form when lava cools quickly on the surface, resulting in smaller crystals. These processes are essential for understanding the Earth's geology and the rock cycle.