Metamorphic

The Rock Cycle

The rock CYCLE is a group of changes. Igneous rock can change into SEDIMENTARY ROCKS or into metamorphic rocks. Sedimentary rocks can change into metamorphic rock or into igneous rock. Metamorphic rock can also change into the other kinds of rock.

So, what does the heat do to the rock? What does an oven do? It bakes the rock.

Baked rock does not melt, but does change. It forms crystals. If it has crystals already, it forms larger crystals. Because this rock changes, it is called metamorphic (met-ah-MORE-fik). Remember that a caterpillar changes to become a butterfly. That change is called metamorphosis (met-ah-MORE-fo-sis). Metamorphosis can occur in rock when they are heated to 300 to 700 degrees Celsius.