METAMORPHIC ROCK Meaning and
Definition
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Metamorphic rock is a type of rock that has undergone substantial changes in mineralogy, texture, and structure due to the influence of intense heat, pressure, or chemical activity within the Earth's crust. This process, known as metamorphism, transforms existing rocks into new and distinct rocks with different physical and chemical properties.
Metamorphic rocks often originate from preexisting sedimentary, igneous, or even other metamorphic rocks. Through the geologic process of metamorphism, they are altered under conditions of high temperature and pressure, causing re-crystallization of minerals and rearrangement of rock textures. The specific conditions and composition of the original rock determine the type of metamorphic rock that forms.
Some common examples of metamorphic rock include marble, which forms from the metamorphism of limestone, and slate, which originates from the metamorphism of shale or mudstone. Other metamorphic rocks include gneiss, schist, and quartzite, each with its own unique characteristics and mineral compositions.
Metamorphic rocks can exhibit a wide range of textures, such as foliated or non-foliated. Foliated rocks have distinct layering or parallel alignment of minerals, reflecting the intense pressures that caused the minerals to align in planes. Non-foliated rocks lack this characteristic layering and typically consist of interlocking mineral grains.
Overall, metamorphic rocks are a significant component of the Earth's crust, with their formation providing valuable insights into past geologic processes and environments.
Common Misspellings for METAMORPHIC ROCK
- netamorphic rock
- ketamorphic rock
- jetamorphic rock
- mwtamorphic rock
- mstamorphic rock
- mdtamorphic rock
- mrtamorphic rock
- m4tamorphic rock
- m3tamorphic rock
- meramorphic rock
- mefamorphic rock
- megamorphic rock
- meyamorphic rock
- me6amorphic rock
- me5amorphic rock
- metzmorphic rock
- metsmorphic rock
- metwmorphic rock
- metqmorphic rock
Etymology of METAMORPHIC ROCK
The word "metamorphic" originates from the Greek roots "meta", meaning change, and "morph", meaning shape or form. Therefore, the etymology of "metamorphic rock" suggests a rock that has undergone a change or transformation in its structure or form.
Similar spelling words for METAMORPHIC ROCK
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