The Right (and Wrong) Way to Die When You Fall Into Lava

[saras]

5. There's real data - including pictures

...and so little need for random speculation.

OF COURSE you don't sink. The specific gravity of lava is WAY higher than water - you'll lay on top of it, basically. And some lava is really viscous, in which case even things like rocks that sink, sink very slowly.

You won't burst into flames, at least not at first. Too much water. Possibly after the steam goes away the fats will catch on fire.

It will NOT be painless, or fast. Smoke inhalation is what kills in most fires. On lava you won't die until you lose too much bodily fluids. So you will most likely lay there rolling around and screaming until all your skin comes off and your water boils away. Much fun.