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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.
The following is a list of rock types recognized by geologists.There is no agreed number of specific types of rock. Any unique combination of chemical composition, mineralogy, grain size, texture, or other distinguishing characteristics can describe a rock type.
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 anywhere from 2 to 15 kbar, sometimes even more, and temperatures over 300 °C (572 °F).
In earlier terminology, scoria was usually defined with a size range, e.g. 2 to 24 mm (0.079 to 0.945 in) in diameter, but neither color nor composition was typically a part of the definition. [ 5 ] [ 6 ] During the 1980s, the size range disappeared from the definition, and a requirement was added that scoria be black or reddish in color and/or ...
[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.
A conglomerate or any clastic sedimentary rock that consists of a single rock or mineral is known as either a monomict, monomictic, oligomict, or oligomictic conglomerate. If the conglomerate consists of two or more different types of rocks, minerals, or combination of both, it is known as either a polymict or polymictic conglomerate.
A sample of banded hornfels, formed by contact metamorphism of sandstones and shales by a granite intrusion. Hornfels is the group name for a set of contact metamorphic rocks that have been baked and hardened by the heat of intrusive igneous masses and have been rendered massive, hard, splintery, and in some cases exceedingly tough and durable. [1]
Clastic rocks are composed of fragments, or clasts, of pre-existing minerals and rock. A clast is a fragment of geological detritus , [ 1 ] chunks, and smaller grains of rock broken off other rocks by physical weathering . [ 2 ]