A lava lamp is a decorative lighting device that contains a special liquid and wax. When the lamp is turned on, a light bulb at the base heats the wax, causing it to melt and rise through the liquid. As the wax cools, it sinks back down, creating a mesmerizing flow of colorful shapes. Invented in the 1960s by Edward Craven Walker, the lava lamp became a popular symbol of the counterculture movement. It is often used as a calming piece of decor in homes and offices, providing a unique visual experience that captures attention and sparks curiosity.