What is the difference between virgin olive oil and extra virgin olive oil?

Pure olive oil is a lower-quality oil than extra-virgin or virgin olive oil, with a lighter color, more neutral flavor, and oleic acid measuring between 3-4%. This type of olive oil is an all-purpose cooking oil.
 
Can you use extra virgin olive oil for cooking?

Refined olive oils also begin to smoke at a higher temperature than most extra virgin olive oils, making them more suited to deep frying. However, extra virgin olive oils are a far better alternative when shallow frying. It is commonly thought that extra virgin olive oil smokes at a low temperature.

Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Good for Your Health?

But one of the few fats that most people agree is healthy is extra virgin olive oil. This oil, part of the Mediterranean diet, is a traditional fat that has been a dietary staple for some of the world's healthiest populations. There is actually quite a bit of research behind the health effects of olive oil.