Lapilli

Description

A size classification for small pyroclastic fragments of Lava. Lapilli means "little stones" in Latin. Formed by droplets of molten lava, cooled in the air, the stones range in size from 2 to 64 mm. Lapilli occur in spheroid, teardrop, dumbbell, or button-like shapes.

Synonyms and Related Terms

lapillus (singular); lapilli (Port.)

Resources and Citations

• José Delgado Rodrigues, LNEC, Contributed information, 2009

• Wikipedia: Lapilli (accessed March 2010)