Metamorphic rocks are very useful. They are formed by an existing rock remelting. There are many types of metamorphic rocks.
Metamorphic rocks are part of the rock cycle.
Metamorphic rock is a result of an existing rock undergoing extreme heat or pressure. Metamorphic rocks often retain some characteristics of the parent rock from which it came from. The usual depth for metamorphism is above igneous depths (50-250) and below sedimentary depths (2km).Metamorphic means change, and metamorphic rock changes over a period of time.
There are three types of rocks. There are igneous,sedimentary and metamorphic rock. Heat and pressure can change an igneous rock, granite, into gneiss (nise). It can change a sedimentary rock, shale, into slate, a metamorphic rock. And it can also change another sedimentary rock, limestone, into marble.
Geological processes work in constant cycles.The processes that occur within the earth, such as changing and mountain building, are driven by the earth’s internal (inside) heat. Surface processes, such as weathering, are activated (react) by the suns energy. Also when they get in the way of a heated volcano,or if they are crushed by the forces that build mountains, rocks are changed so much they become a new kind of rock called‘metamorphic’ rock. Igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and even metamorphic rocks can be burnt and squeezed to make new rocks in this way.
Metamorphic rocks are used for many things. Marble is used to make counter tops. Slate is used to make roofs. Some houses are made of metamorphic rocks.
Metamorphic rocks have been around since the beginning of time. They come in many shapes and sizes. They will probably be here forever.