Magma is a hot, molten rock found beneath the Earth's surface. It forms when solid rock in the mantle or crust melts due to high temperatures and pressure. When magma rises to the surface, it can erupt through volcanoes, becoming lava. Magma contains various minerals and gases, which can influence its behavior during eruptions. There are different types of magma, such as basaltic, andesitic, and rhyolitic, each with unique properties. Understanding magma is essential for studying volcanic activity and predicting eruptions, which can help protect communities living near volcanoes.