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Home > Processes
> Metamorphism
Metamorphism means "changed form". It's no wonder then, that metamorphism is the process that changes sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks into new metamorphic rocks. How does it do this? Well, heat and pressure within the Earth alter the mineral content, chemical composition, and structure of solid rock without melting it. One special type of metamorphism is "contact metamorphism". In this type, the rock is changed when it touches hot magma.
Click here for an activity dealing with metamorphism.
Other Processes:
- Weathering and erosion (transport and deposition)
- Cementation
and compaction
- Melting
- Cooling
and solidification (crystallization)
The Rock Cycle Web Site
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Webmasters: Chris
Lucas and Kate Seigfried
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This page was last updated on December 4, 2000
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