Rock Cycle: Transition to Metamorphic Rock
When rocks are exposed to high pressure and temperature, they can change chemically and physically to form a different type of rock. Regional metamorphism describes the changes that take place to huge rock masses over a vast region and is frequently connected to mountain-building activities in orogenic belts. Foliation, often known as discrete bands of different mineralogy and hues, is a frequent feature of these rocks.
When an igneous intrusion makes contact with a body of rock, it warms up the surrounding country rock and results in another major kind of metamorphism. Because of the intense heat of the magma and/or the influx of fluids from the magma that add chemicals to the surrounding rock, this contact metamorphism causes a rock to change and re-crystallize. The processes of metamorphism can change any form of pre-existing rock.
Rock Cycle
Rock cycle refers to the web of processes that outlines how the three main types of rocks- igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, form and break down based on various applications of processes of heat and pressure over due course of time. For example, sedimentary rock becomes slate when both heat and pressure are added to it. The more heat and pressure added, the process of rock metamorphoses is furthered until it changes to gneiss and the rock melts down completely and reforms as igneous rock.
Table of Content
- What is the Rock Cycle?
- Rock Cycle Diagram
- Rock Cycle Steps
- Factors Affecting Rock Cycle
- Rock Cycle- Transition and Formation
- Rock Cycle: Transition to Igneous Rock
- Rock Cycle: Transition to Metamorphic Rock
- Rock Cycle: Transition to Sedimentary Rock