Metamorphic
Key Stage 3
Meaning
A metamorphic rock is a rock that has formed from another rock being transformed underground by high temperature and pressure.
About Metamorphic Rocks
- Most metamorphic rocks are formed from sedimentary rocks but some can be formed from igneous rocks.
- Metamorphic rocks are usually softer than igneous rocks but harder than sedimentary rocks.
- Metamorphic rocks have interlocking grains that usually look squashed because of the pressure underground.
Examples
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| Marble is a metamorphic rock formed from limestone that was exposed to high temperature and pressure. | Slate was formed when mudstone was metamorphosised high temperature and pressure. | Gneiss was formed from the igneous rock 'Granite' that has been metamorphosised. |