Cristobalite is a high-temperature form of silica (silicon dioxide), typically occurring in volcanic rocks and as a product of the crystallization of molten lava. It is characterized by its distinct crystal structure and is one of the three main forms of silica, the others being quartz and tridymite. Cristobalite can be formed at temperatures above 1470 °C (2678 °F) and can be found in various geological settings. It is often studied in geology and materials science for its unique properties and behavior under different conditions.