Metamorphic Rocks - Definition, Examples, Quiz, FAQ, Trivia
Discover how rocks transform under heat and pressure!
What are Metamorphic Rocks?
Metamorphic rocks are nature's transformers! They start as one type of rock (like sedimentary or igneous) and change into a completely different rock through a process called metamorphism. This happens deep underground where there's intense heat and pressure - like being in Earth's rock oven!
The word "metamorphic" comes from Greek words meaning "change form." These rocks don't melt completely like igneous rocks, but they transform while staying solid. It's similar to how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly - completely changed but without melting first!
Rock Fact!
The oldest metamorphic rocks on Earth are over 4 billion years old - almost as old as our planet!
How Metamorphic Rocks Form
Metamorphic rocks form through incredible geological processes deep inside the Earth. There are two main ways they transform:
Heat
Rocks near magma or deep underground get heated to 200-1000°C
Pressure
Rocks get squeezed by layers above or moving tectonic plates
Fluids
Hot water and chemicals help minerals change and rearrange
Types of Metamorphism
Contact Metamorphism
Rocks change when touching hot magma (like a rock baking in an oven)
Regional Metamorphism
Rocks transform over huge areas during mountain building
Foliated vs Non-foliated Rocks
Foliated Rocks
Have layers or bands (like pages in a book)
Examples: Schist, Gneiss
Non-foliated Rocks
No layers, made of crystals
Examples: Marble, Quartzite
Examples of Metamorphic Rocks
Metamorphic rocks come in many beautiful forms. Here are some common examples:
Gneiss
Foliated rock with distinct bands
Forms from granite or shale
Schist
Foliated with visible mica flakes
Shiny, glittery appearance
Marble
Non-foliated, made of calcite
Forms from limestone
Quartzite
Non-foliated, very hard
Forms from sandstone
Why Metamorphic Rocks Matter
• Marble is used for sculptures and buildings
• Slate (a metamorphic rock) is used for roofing and chalkboards
• Gneiss and quartzite are used in construction
• They help scientists understand Earth's history
Metamorphic Rocks Quiz
Test your knowledge about metamorphic rocks with this quiz!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about metamorphic rocks:
Rock Transformation Trivia
Discover some amazing facts about metamorphic rocks!
Famous Marble
The Taj Mahal in India is made of white marble! This beautiful metamorphic rock was formed from limestone under heat and pressure.
Extreme Pressure
Some metamorphic rocks form under pressure equivalent to 50,000 African elephants standing on a single dining table!
Diamond Connection
Diamonds form under extreme heat and pressure - making them technically metamorphic minerals! They form about 100 miles below Earth's surface.
Ancient Rocks
The oldest metamorphic rocks found on Earth are over 4 billion years old! They're found in Canada and provide clues about Earth's early history.
