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Metamorphic Rocks. Fig. 3-CO, p.44. Fig. 3-4, p.46. Metamorphism. The transition of one rock into another by temperatures and/or pressures unlike those in which it formed. Metamorphic rocks are produced from Igneous rocks Sedimentary rocks Other metamorphic rocks. Metamorphism.
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Metamorphic Rocks Fig. 3-CO, p.44
Metamorphism The transition of one rock into another by temperatures and/or pressures unlike those in which it formed. Metamorphic rocks are produced from • Igneous rocks • Sedimentary rocks • Other metamorphic rocks
Metamorphism • Progresses incrementally from low to high-grade • Rock must remains essentially solid throughout process • Agents of metamorphism include heat, pressure and chemically-active fluids
Metamorphic settings • Contact or thermal metamorphism – driven by a rise in temperature within the host rock • Hydrothermal metamorphism – chemical alterations from hot, ion-rich water • Regional metamorphism (mountain building)
Agents of metamorphism Heat: The most important agent • recrystallization of mineral grains and chemical precipitates • Formation of new, stable minerals • Two sources of heat • Contact metamorphism – heat from magma • An increase in temperature with depth due to the geothermal gradient
Agents of metamorphism Pressure (stress) increases with depth • Confining pressure: applies forces equally in all directions • Example: depositional environment • Differential stress: applies unequal forces in different directions • Example: mountain-building environment
Agents of metamorphism Pressure (stress) increases with depth • Confining pressure: applies forces equally in all directions • Example: depositional environment • Differential stress: applies unequal forces in different directions • Example: mountain-building environment
Role of Parent Rock • Mineral composition of parent rock determines mineral composition of metamorphic daughter rock (often the same or similar: • Sandstone and quartzite • Limestone and marble • Mineral composition of parent rock determines grade of metamorphism that takes place: