Metamorphic rocks

How is metamorphic rocks formed

Metamorphic rocks start as one type of rock and—with pressure, heat, and time—gradually change into a new type of rock.

What are metamorphic rocks

Rocks that undergo a change to form a new rock are referred to as metamorphic rocks.

What is Metamorphism

Change of minerals or geologic texture in pre-existing rocks (protoliths) without the protolith melting into liquid magma. (Solid state change)

2 Types of Metamorphism

1. Regional

2. Contact

Where does regional type of metamorphism happen

It happens over large region of the

crust where high temperature and pressure

is present.

Where does contact type of metamorphism happen

happens on layers of rocks having contact with heat (magma).

3 Causes of Metamorphism

1. Heat

2. Pressure

3. Chemically-active fluids

Why is heat a cause of metamorphism

Because most chemical processes require energy in order to efficiently proceed.

What does pressure mean as a cause of metamorphism

It means the amount of force applied/ acted on a body over a unit area.

What are the 2 types of pressure

1. Confining pressure

2. Differential pressure

What is Confining pressure

A pressure that has constant or uniform pressure around a body.

What is differential pressure

it is a dominance of a particular direction with respect to pressure.

Why is Chemically-active fluids a cause of metamorphism

because it facilitates ion movement and the recrystallization of existing and new minerals.