Metamorphic Rock Classification
Metamorphic Rock Names
Metamorphic Processes
Outline
Metamorphic rocks are divided into two groups on the basis of the P/T conditions
of formation:
Regional Metamorphic Rocks
generated mainly by pressure in the
roots of mountain belts.
Contact Metamorphic Rocks
generated mainly by temperature at the
margins of igneous intrusions. Sometimes called thermal metamorphic rocks.
A second common subdivision of metamorphic rocks is based on texture:
The type of metamorphic rock is determined by the parent rock and the P/T
conditions. In general, metamophism causes:
Non-foliated Rocks
recrystallized texture but no preferred mineral orientation.
Foliated Rocks
with strong mineral orientation and/or mineral banding or layering.
Metamorphic Rock Names
Metamorphic Processes
Outline
(c) Department of Civil and Geological Engineering, University of Saskatchewan,
57 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada, S7N 5A9