Basaltic refers to a type of volcanic rock that is dark in color and rich in iron and magnesium. It forms from the rapid cooling of lava that is low in silica, which allows it to flow easily. Basaltic rocks are commonly found in oceanic crust and are a major component of volcanic islands, such as those formed by the Hawaiian Islands. This type of rock is often associated with shield volcanoes, which have broad, gently sloping sides. The eruptions of basaltic lava tend to be less explosive than those of more silica-rich lavas, making them more predictable. Examples of basaltic formations include the Columbia River Basalt Group and the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.