Metamorphic Rocks - Summary Notes
1. Meaning of Metamorphic
'Meta' = change, 'Morphic' = form
- Metamorphic rocks = rocks that have changed form due to Pressure, Volume, and Temperature (PVT) conditions.
2. Causes of Metamorphism
- Tectonic processes (rocks pushed deep underground)
- Contact with molten magma (increases temperature)
- Pressure from overlying rocks
3. What Happens During Metamorphism
- Original rocks are recrystallized and reorganized.
- No melting, but solid rocks change structure and composition.
4. Types of Metamorphism
- Dynamic Metamorphism: Mechanical pressure/crushing without major chemical change.
- Thermal Metamorphism: High temperature causes chemical alteration and recrystallization.
-> Contact Metamorphism: Local effect due to hot magma/lava contact.
-> Regional Metamorphism: Large-scale effect due to high pressure and temperature from tectonic activity.
5. Structures Formed During Metamorphism
- Foliation: Minerals align in layers or lines.
- Lineation: Linear alignment of minerals.
- Banding: Alternating light and dark mineral layers.
- Banded Rocks: Rocks that exhibit clear banding (e.g., Gneiss).
6. Classification of Metamorphic Rocks
- Foliated Rocks: Have layers/lines due to mineral alignment (e.g., Slate, Schist, Gneiss).
- Non-Foliated Rocks: No visible layers or bands (e.g., Marble, Quartzite).
Metamorphic Rocks - Summary Notes
7. Examples of Metamorphic Rocks
- Foliated: Slate, Schist, Gneiss
- Non-Foliated: Marble (from limestone), Quartzite (from sandstone)
- Others: Granite (when modified), Syenite
8. Simple Diagrams
A. Metamorphism Process:
Original Rock -> (Pressure + Temperature) -> Metamorphic Rock
B. Foliation Example (Schist):
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C. Banding in Gneiss:
------------------- (Light Minerals)
=================== (Dark Minerals)
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