Chapter 1: Problem 3

What is metamorphism?

Short Answer

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Metamorphism is the process where rocks undergo changes in their composition, structure, or texture due to influences of heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids without melting the rock. This change occurs through re-crystallizing minerals or neocrystallization. There are two main types of metamorphism: regional and contact metamorphism. Regional metamorphism occurs over large areas and is associated with mountain-building processes, while contact metamorphism occurs when rocks come into contact with hot magma or lava. An example of metamorphism is the formation of marble as a result of limestone being subjected to high heat and pressure.

Step by step solution

Define Metamorphism

Metamorphism is the process by which rocks undergo a change in their composition, structure, or texture due to the influences of heat, pressure, or chemically active fluids. This change occurs without melting the rock, but rather by re-crystallizing its minerals or through a process called neocrystallization, where new minerals form from the rearrangement of chemical elements in the rock.

Explain the Causes of Metamorphism

There are three main causes of metamorphism: heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids. Heat can be generated by the Earth's internal processes (e.g., conduction from the mantle) or by the intrusion of hot magma into the rock. Pressure can be caused by the weight of overlying rocks, tectonic forces, or the result of a rock being deeply buried beneath the Earth's surface. Lastly, chemically active fluids can cause metamorphism by causing chemical reactions and promoting the growth of new minerals.

Describe the Different Types of Metamorphism

There are two main types of metamorphism: regional and contact metamorphism. Regional metamorphism occurs over large areas and is associated with mountain-building processes. It involves the simultaneous effects of heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids. Contact metamorphism, on the other hand, occurs when rocks come into contact with hot magma or lava. The heat from the magma causes the minerals in the rock to recrystallize or react to form new minerals, without the rock melting.

Explain the Process of Metamorphism

During metamorphism, the minerals in the rock will be subjected to changes in temperature and pressure, causing them to react, recrystallize or form new minerals. This process can cause the rock's original texture and mineral composition to change, resulting in the formation of a new type of rock called a metamorphic rock. Some common examples of metamorphic rocks include marble (from limestone) and schist (from shale).

Provide an Example

Let's consider the formation of marble, a metamorphic rock. Marble forms from limestone, a sedimentary rock composed primarily of the mineral calcite (\(CaCO_3\)). When limestone is subjected to high heat and pressure during metamorphism, the calcite crystals grow larger, and the rock's texture changes, forming the interlocking pattern of crystals seen in marble. This transformation process illustrates how metamorphism can alter the composition, structure, and appearance of a rock.

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What is metamorphism?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Metamorphism

Explain the Causes of Metamorphism

Describe the Different Types of Metamorphism

Explain the Process of Metamorphism

Provide an Example

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