Questions and Answers
Which statement best describes foliation?
Under which temperature and pressure conditions could a metamorphic rock containing beta quartz and andalusite have formed?
Match the steps in neocrystallization with their correct order:
Protolith minerals are consumed by chemical reactions = 1 Thin clay minerals begin to align = 2 Clay grains flatten out and become parallel to one another = 3 Small garnets appear = 4
What is the result of shear stress in metamorphic rocks?
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What effects does uniform pressure have on metamorphic rocks?
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Which rock formed as a result of plastic deformation?
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What is the best classification for the metamorphic rock shown below?
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Rank the following mineral assemblages from highest grade to lowest grade: 1.garnet, feldspar, and sillimanite; 2.garnet, staurolite, and muscovite; 3.chlorite, quartz, and biotite; 4.clay and chlorite.
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Study Notes
Foliation
- Defined as the alignment of mineral grains perpendicular to the direction of compression, indicating a structural characteristic of certain metamorphic rocks.
Metamorphic Rock Analysis
- Rocks containing beta quartz and andalusite are formed under specific conditions of approximately 600°C and 1 kbar pressure.
Neocrystallization Steps
- Initial step involves the consumption of protolith minerals through chemical reactions.
- Thin clay minerals start to align in response to stress.
- Clay grains undergo flattening, achieving a parallel orientation to each other.
- Appearance of small garnets marks the later stages of neocrystallization.
Shear Stress Effects
- Results in the elongation of mineral grains.
- Associated with the development of foliation in metamorphic rocks.
Uniform Pressure Effects
- Leads to the formation of large, equant mineral grains.
- Causes the rounding of existing mineral grains in metamorphic rocks.
Plastic Deformation
- Rock C is identified as having formed through the process of plastic deformation, showcasing changes at a microscopic level.
Gneiss Classification
- The depicted metamorphic rock is classified as gneiss, a type known for its banded appearance and mineral composition.
Mineral Assemblage Ranking
- Highest grade assemblage includes garnet, feldspar, and sillimanite.
- Intermediate grades display garnet, staurolite, and muscovite.
- Chlorite, quartz, and biotite represent lower-grade materials.
- The lowest grade consists of clay and chlorite, indicating a progression in metamorphic intensity.
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Description
Test your understanding of foliation and metamorphic rocks with these interactive flashcards from Chapter 08. This activity covers key concepts such as mineral alignment and the conditions under which specific metamorphic rocks form. Dive in to enhance your geological knowledge!
