Metamorphic Rocks

In this book, readers will learn how intense heat and pressure changes rock so completely it becomes metamorphic rock. Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text will engage readers as they learn more about the new rocks that are created and where on Earth they are found.

Metamorphic rocks are one of the three classes of rocks. Seen on a global scale they constitute the dominant material of the Earth. The understanding of the petrogenesis and significance of metamorphic of geological education. rocks is, therefore, a fundamental topic There are, of course, many different possible ways to lecture on this theme. This book addresses rock metamorphism from a relatively pragmatic view point. It has been written for the senior undergrad uate or graduate student who needs practical knowledge of how to interpret various groups of minerals found in metamorphic rocks. The book is also of interest for the non-specialist and non-petrolo gist professional who is interested in learning more about the geolo gical messages that metamorphic mineral assemblages are sending, as well as pressure and temperature conditions of formation. The book is organized into two parts. The first part introduces the different types of metamorphism, defines some names, terms and graphs used to describe metamorphic rocks, and discusses principal aspects of metamorphic processes. Part I introduces the causes of metamorphism on various scales in time and space, and some principles of chemical reactions in rocks that accompany metamorphism, but without treating these principles in detail, and presenting the thermodynamic basis for quantitative analysis of reactions and their equilibria in metamorphism. Part I also presents concepts of metamorphic grade or intensity of metamorphism, such as the metamorphic-facies concept.

This book is an illustrative introduction to metamorphic rocks as seen in the field, designed for advanced high school to graduate-level earth science and geology students to jump-start their observational skills. In addition to photographs of rocks in the field, there are numerous line diagrams and examples of metamorphic features shown in thin section. The thin section photos are all at a scale and in a context that can be related to views seen in the field through a hand lens. This book will serve as a pictorial atlas of metamorphic rocks, processes, and features. Suitable for a broad range of education, background, and interests.

Metamorphic rocks form deep below Earth’s surface. Over thousands of years, they make their way to the surface. Then they are collected for use as building materials, sharpened tools, and even fertilizer! Interesting text and vivid photos engage readers in this fascinating book about metamorphic rocks. Additional special features, such as a rock profile, formation diagrams, and a rock cycle chart, will help underscore the key features of these useful rocks for confident students who are reading to learn.

This volume explains metamorphic rocks, the different ways in which they are formed, and how they can change into different metamorphic rocks through contact or shock metamorphism. It covers plate tectonics, the formation of mountains, and varieties of metamorphic rocks such as gneiss, slate, fulgurite, quartzite, marble, schist, and hornfels.

Heat, pressure and stress can also change some igneous or sedimentary rocks into other kinds of rocks. This fact-filled book describes the process that turns limestone into marble, shale into slate, and granite into gneiss. Metamorphic rocks are often used as materials for floors, roofs, and counter tops because of their beauty.

Within the rock cycle, the formation of metamorphic rock can be the most confusing. It’s not only formed from existing rock, but also can be formed in a few different ways. Readers learn the basics of metamorphic rock, including how to tell the difference between foliated and non-foliated varieties. The main content addresses key points of the Earth science curriculum using accessible language and brief, clear explanations, which make this book helpful to struggling readers or those just looking for a review.