Classifying Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic Rocks Classification

• The main factor used to classify metamorphic rocks is the mineral composition.

Characteristics of Metamorphic Rocks

• The defining characteristic used to identify metamorphic rocks is their mineral composition and structure.
• Intense heat and/or pressure can change the crystal structure of metamorphic rocks.

Rock Formation Processes

• Lithostatic pressure, which is the heat and pressure from the mechanical weight of overlying sediment or the Earth's mantle, causes rock formation.

Types of Metamorphism

• Regional metamorphism affects large areas of rock, while contact metamorphism affects rock in a smaller area surrounding magma.
• Contact metamorphism occurs when other types of rock come into contact with or are impacted by the heat of magma.

Magma

• Magma, which is liquid rock, is primarily found under the Earth's surface.

Metamorphic Rocks Types

• Marble is a type of metamorphic rock that can be made of a single mineral and is often used for construction and sculpture.

Foliation

• Foliation in layered metamorphic rocks results in the formation of parallel layers or bands.

Minerals in Metamorphic Rocks

• Mica, a highly reflective mineral, is found in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss, schist, and phyllites, and is used in cosmetics as glitter.
• Quartz is the most abundant mineral on Earth.

Protoliths and Parent Rocks

• Quartz-rich sandstone can form quartzite.
• Shale is a protolith for slate.
• Limestone is the parent rock of marble.
• The mineral group feldspar contains large amounts of aluminum and silica.

Learn about the classification and identification of metamorphic rocks. Understand the various ways in which metamorphic rocks are classified and identified based on their formation and characteristics.