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Lava Tree

Part of Hall of Planet Earth.

Lava tree

Lava may congeal around a tree to form a mold on the trunk and branches.  This is common in Hawaii because certain trees there hold large amounts of water.  When the hot lava comes into contact with the tree, the water turns to steam and cools the lava, solidifying it before the tree burns up.

Provided by the Kahuku Ranch, Big Island, Hawaii