Week 8 Metamorphic Rocks and the Rock Cycle
Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have been altered by heat and or pressure. The original rock may be sedimentary, igneous or even other metamorphic.
As they are derived from existing rock, their appearance is variable.
As they are derived from existing rock, their appearance is variable.
- A common feature is that the minerals appear lined up. Compare and contrast metamorphic gneiss and the igneous rock granite.
- There is a sheen to the metamorphic rocks. Compare and contrast metamorphic slate with sedimentary shale.
- They are identified by the types of minerals they contain. Identify the main mineral in metamorphic marble and sedimentary limestone.
You have samples of three different metamorphic rocks;
Examine each with a hand lens and write down your observations. Observations are to include;
Compare Granite to Gneiss
Compare Shale to Slate
Compare Limestone to Marble
- Gneiss,
- Slate and
- Marble
Examine each with a hand lens and write down your observations. Observations are to include;
- Can you see crystals or particles of rock?
- Colours of the minerals present
Compare Granite to Gneiss
- List any similarities
- List any differences
Compare Shale to Slate
- List any similarities
- List any differences
Compare Limestone to Marble
- List any similarities
- List any differences