Metamorphism

From GeoClasses

An igneous intrusion with zone of metamorphosed rocks (shaded area) around it. This is called contact metamorphism.

Metamorphism can be defined as the mineralogical, chemical and crystallographic changes in a solid-state rock, i.e. without melting, in response to new conditions of pressure and/or temperature and/or introduction of fluids.

Metamorphism produced with increasing pressure and temperature conditions is known as prograde metamorphism. Conversely, decreasing temperatures and pressure characterize retrograde metamorphism.

From Wikipedia (Feb 22nd, 2006)

Navigate