Pāhoehoe lava

Pāhoehoe lava is a type of basaltic lava characterized by its smooth, ropy surface. It forms when lava cools slowly while still flowing, creating a elastic, glassy crust that wrinkles into intricate patterns. This lava tends to be relatively fluid, allowing it to flow smoothly over landscapes, often creating gentle, undulating shapes like billowy sheets or rolling hills. Pāhoehoe is common in volcanic regions and is distinguished from the more jagged, rough-textured ʻaʻā lava, which results from more viscous, fragmented flows. Its flowing, glassy appearance makes it a striking feature of many volcanic landscapes.