The metamorphic rocks are the result of the transformation of the existing rock type in a process which is called the metamorphism which also means the change of the forms. The protolith is subjected to the heat and pressure which brings about the physical as well as the chemical changes in the rock. The protoliths can be the sedimentary rocks, igneous rock or any other metamorphic rocks.

Metamorphic rocks forms a large part of the earth crust and are often marked by the texture and the chemical and the mineral assemblage. They are formed by simply being beneath the earth surface where they are subjected to high temperature and pressure.

They can be formed by the tectonic processes such as the continental collision which causes the horizontal pressure, friction and distortion. They are also formed when the rocks are heated up by the magma under the earths crust.

The study of the metamorphic rocks now exposed at the earth’s surface following erosion and uplift) provides us with the valuable information about the temperature and pressure which works far beneath the earth crust.

Some of the examples of the metamorphic rocks are slate, marble, quartzite and so on.

I do feel that you should know about the types of metamorphism. Some of the metamorphism types are as follows. In fact they are only two:

1. Contact metamorphism
Contact metamorphism is the name given to the changes that take place when magma is injected into the surrounding solid rock (country rock). The changes that occur are greatest wherever the magma comes into contact with the rock because the temperatures are highest at this boundary and decrease with distance from it. Around the igneous rock that forms from the cooling magma is a metamorphosed zone called a contact metamorphism aureole?

There are a lot to tell about the Contact metamorphism but I do feel that this much information is more than enough. However you should keep it in your mind that magma plays an important role in the production of the metamorphic rocks since the temperature required is maintained due to the presence of the magma only.

2. Regional metamorphism
Regional metamorphism is the name given to the change in great masses of rocks over a wide area. You should really keep it in your mind that whatever might be the area and whatever might be the type of the metamorphic rocks one thing is for sure and that is the metamorphic rocks are found below the earth surface and are formed due to the high temperature and pressure which is present beneath the earth surface.

I do feel that you will definitely find the study on metamorphic rocks to be more than interesting because you will discover so many new things about these types of rocks.

Tags: contact metamorphism, metamorphic rocks, regional metamorphism