15 Questions
What is the primary heat source for contact metamorphism?
Intrusion of magma into existing cooler rock layers
What distinguishes contact metamorphic rocks from regional metamorphic rocks?
They are primarily undeformed mineral crystals with subtle mineral bands or foliation
What is the difference between limestone and marble?
Limestone has a grey, featureless appearance while marble tends to be bright white with subtle, wavy bands of gray
What causes limestone to change into marble?
A rapid rise in temperature and pressure
What characterizes regional metamorphic rocks?
They have prominent bands of aligned minerals that are often deformed
Where do regional metamorphic rocks commonly form?
During the formation of mountains under high heat and pressure
What is the distinguishing characteristic of contact metamorphism?
Formation of rocks with subtle mineral bands or foliation in a small area
What causes regional metamorphism to occur?
Squeezing, folding, and burial of rocks due to tectonic plate collisions
What are the three high-level rock categories defined in geology?
Igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks
How is a metamorphic rock defined?
Any rock that has undergone changes in response to surrounding conditions
What are the two most common types of metamorphism?
Regional and contact metamorphism
What does the term 'protolith' refer to in the context of metamorphic rocks?
The original, preexisting rock before it undergoes metamorphism
What happens to the mineral composition and texture of a protolith rock during metamorphism?
They transform to a stable form in the new environment
What distinguishes metamorphic rocks from igneous rocks?
Metamorphic rocks form when a preexisting rock experiences different temperature or pressure conditions, while igneous rocks form from a melt like magma and lava
Under what conditions does metamorphic rock formation occur?
High temperature and high pressure
Learn about the formation of metamorphic rocks and the two most common types of metamorphism in this geology lesson. Discover the general principles of metamorphism and the solid-state alterations that lead to the formation of metamorphic rocks.
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