Metamorphic Rocks Overview

What is the original rock called before it becomes metamorphosed?

Which type of metamorphic rock is characterized by a layered or banded appearance?

What primarily drives the process of regional metamorphism?

Which process involves less alteration and affects a smaller area of rock?

During metamorphism, what happens to minerals in the rock when pressure is greater in one direction?

What is a defining characteristic of non-foliated metamorphic rocks?

Where can metamorphism primarily occur due to high pressure and temperature?

Which statement best describes contact metamorphism?

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic rocks form when high temperatures and pressure alter a rock's composition, texture, or mineralogy without melting it.
The original rock is called the parent rock, and the altered rock is the daughter rock.
Metamorphism occurs in areas of high pressure and/or temperature, such as deep within Earth, near magma intrusions, and near convergent plate boundaries.
Metamorphic rocks can be classified into two main groups: foliated and non-foliated.

Foliated Metamorphic Rocks

Foliated rocks exhibit a layered or banded appearance due to directed pressure.
Needle-like crystals align with their long axes perpendicular to the pressure source.
Examples include slate, phyllite, schist, and gneiss.

Non-Foliated Metamorphic Rocks

Non-foliated rocks lack a layered or banded appearance; directed pressure was not present during formation.
Examples include marble and quartzite.

Types of Metamorphism

Contact metamorphism: Occurs when hot magma heats surrounding rocks. The area affected is relatively small (less than 100 meters squared).
Regional metamorphism: Occurs during mountain-building. Large areas of rock are subjected to high pressures and temperatures deep within Earth.
Deformational metamorphism: Occurs at relatively low temperatures but with high pressures, often at faults where rocks move past each other. It causes rocks to deform or change shape.

Explore the fascinating world of metamorphic rocks through this quiz. Learn about the processes that transform parent rocks into daughter rocks, including the classification into foliated and non-foliated types. Test your knowledge on key characteristics, examples, and types of metamorphism.