Igneous petrology is the study of the origin, composition, classification, and evolution of igneous rocks, which are formed through the solidification of molten magma. This field of research involves analyzing the mineralogy, texture, and geochemistry of igneous rocks to understand processes such as magma formation, crystallization, and differentiation. Igneous petrologists also investigate the relationships between different types of igneous rocks and their tectonic settings, as well as the role of igneous activity in the Earth's geologic history. Overall, igneous petrology plays a key role in understanding the formation and behavior of volcanic and plutonic rock formations.