The molten material that comes out from a ridge is called magma while it is underground, and lava once it reaches the surface. At a mid-ocean ridge , this material rises from the mantle and erupts, then spreads outward as the seafloor moves apart.

Quick Scoop

  • Below the surface: magma.
  • At the surface: lava.
  • At a ridge: molten material rises from the mantle and erupts.

If you want, I can also explain why mid-ocean ridges create new ocean floor in one simple paragraph.