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Rocks

Metamorphic Rocks.

Metamorphic means "changed form".

What is a Metamorphic Rock?

A metamorphic rock is a rock which has had its form changed by
the action of high temperatures and pressures (without melting).
The crystal structure of the rock is changed in the process.
Metamorphism can be low or high grade.


Under what Conditions do Rocks have their Form Changed?

Rocks can become subject to high temperatures
because they come into
contact with an igneous intrusion.
This is called
contact metamorphism

or

rocks become subject to high temperatures and pressures
because of tectonic activity in the Earth's crust. This is called
regional metamorphism and it occurs where plates collide.


Examples of metamorphic rock are

Marble     Slate, Schist and Gneiss.

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