6) Metamorphism Flashcards
Heat
(200-900•C), causes mineral reactions and coarsening
Ex: muscovite -> orthoclase + water + corundum
Agents of metamorphism
Heat, pressure and Hydrothermal solutions
Pressure
Causes mineral reaction and deformation of rocks
Hydrothermal solutions
Carry dissolved elements that can cause formation of new minerals (metasomatism)
Causes of metamorphism
- Plate tectonics and mountain building
- Intrusion of magmas into upper crust
Metamorphic foliation
Foliation is the alignment of micas and other minerals because of compression, it is common in schist
Metamorphic foliation importance
Influences groundwater flow and slope stability and shows potential of sliding
Metamorphic resources
- Slate and marble are important building stones
- many gems are metamorphic minerals like ruby, garnet, jade ect