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Metamorphic rocks arise from the transformation of existing rock to new types of rock in a process called metamorphism. The original rock ( protolith ) is subjected to temperatures greater than 150 to 200 °C (300 to 400 °F) and, often, elevated pressure of 100 megapascals (1,000 bar ) or more, causing profound physical or chemical changes.
[33] [34] Subsequent erosion of the mountains exposes the roots of the orogenic belt as extensive outcrops of metamorphic rock, [35] characteristic of mountain chains. [33] Metamorphic rock formed in these settings tends to shown well-developed foliation. [33] Foliation develops when a rock is being shortened along one axis during metamorphism.
Schist (/ ˈ ʃ ɪ s t / SHIST) is a medium-grained metamorphic rock showing pronounced schistosity (named for the rock). This means that the rock is composed of mineral grains easily seen with a low-power hand lens , oriented in such a way that the rock is easily split into thin flakes or plates.
Gneiss (/ n aɪ s / nice) is a common and widely distributed type of metamorphic rock. It is formed by high-temperature and high-pressure metamorphic processes acting on formations composed of igneous or sedimentary rocks. This rock is formed under pressures ranging from 2 to 15 kbar, sometimes even more, and temperatures over 300 °C (572 °F).
The platiness gives the rock schistosity (a tendency to split into layers). Other common minerals include quartz, orthoclase, talc, carbonate minerals and amphibole . [1] Greenschist is a general field petrologic term for metamorphic or altered mafic volcanic rock. In Europe, the term prasinite is sometimes used.
Cleavage is a type of rock foliation, a fabric element that describes the way planar features develop in a rock. Foliation is separated into two groups: primary and secondary. Primary deals with igneous and sedimentary rocks, while secondary deals with rocks that undergo metamorphism as a result of deformation. Cleavage is a type of secondary ...
Marble is a metamorphic rock consisting of carbonate minerals (most commonly calcite (CaCO 3) or dolomite (CaMg(CO 3) 2) that have recrystallized under the influence of heat and pressure. [1] It has a crystalline texture, and is typically not foliated ( layered ), although there are exceptions.
Serpentinite is a metamorphic rock composed predominantly of serpentine group minerals formed by serpentinization of mafic or ultramafic rocks. The ancient origin of the name is uncertain; it may be from the similarity of its texture or color to snake skin. [1] Greek pharmacologist Dioscorides (AD 50) recommended eating this rock to prevent ...