Metamorphic rock

Quick Facts: Who was Metamorphic rock?

Subject:

Metamorphic rock

Known for:

Rock transformed by intense heat and pressure from an original type.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Metamorphic rocks arise from the transformation of existing rock to new types of rock in a process called metamorphism. The original rock (protolith) is subjected to temperatures greater than 150 to 200 °C (300 to 400 °F) and, often, elevated pressure of 100 megapascals (1,000 bar) or more, causing profound physical or chemical changes. During this process, the rock remains mostly in the solid state, but gradually recrystallizes to a new texture or mineral composition.

Career & Major Achievements

The protolith may be an igneous, sedimentary, or existing metamorphic rock. Metamorphic rocks make up a large part of the Earth's crust and form 12% of the Earth's land surface. They are classified by their protolith, their chemical and mineral makeup, and their texture.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

They may be formed simply by being deeply buried beneath the Earth's surface, where they are subject to high temperatures and the great pressure of the rock layers above. They can also form from tectonic processes such as continental collisions, which cause horizontal pressure, friction, and distortion. Metamorphic rock can be formed locally when rock is heated by the intrusion of hot molten rock called magma from the Earth's interior.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Metamorphic rock

True or False: “Metamorphic rocks are formed only by deep burial beneath the Earth's surface, never by localized heating from magma intrusion.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): Metamorphic rocks can form from deep burial, but they can also form locally when rock is heated by the intrusion of hot molten rock called magma, creating contact aureoles.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Metamorphic rock