Metamorphic Rocks & Rock Cycle

Metamorphic Rocks

Rocks that form when existing rocks are changed by heat, pressure, and chemical reactions.

Rock Cycle

The continual changing of rocks into different types throughout various geological processes.

Regional Metamorphism

Metamorphic changes that occur over large areas.

Contact Metamorphism

Metamorphic changes that occur over small areas.

Foliated Rocks

Metamorphic rocks with crystals arranged in layers and bands.

Nonfoliated Rocks

Metamorphic rocks where crystals have a more random orientation.

Chemical Reaction

A process in which one or more substances are changed into new substances.

Law of Conservation of Matter

The principle that matter is neither created nor destroyed during any process.

Slate

A fine-grained foliated metamorphic rock formed from shale.

Marble

A nonfoliated metamorphic rock formed from limestone.