metamorphism

met·a·mor·phism  (mt-môrfzm)

n.

The process by which rocks are altered in composition, texture, or internal structure by extreme heat, pressure, and the introduction of new chemical substances.

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[metamorph(ic) + -ism.]

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metamorphism

Noun

the process by which metamorphic rocks are formed

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metamorphism  (mt-môrfzm)

The process by which rocks are changed in composition, texture, or structure by extreme heat and pressure. In prograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under low pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to higher pressures and temperatures. In retrograde metamorphism metamorphic rocks that were formed under high pressure and temperature conditions undergo a second metamorphic event in which they are exposed to lower pressures and temperatures. See more at contact metamorphismregional metamorphism

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metamorphism

1. the process of change in the form and structure of rocks by the agency of heat, water, and pressure.
2. the change of particular types of rock, as limestone into marble. Also called epigenesis. See also change. — metamorphic, adj.

See also: Geology

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change in form, structure, shape, appearance, etc. See also geology. — metamorphic, adj.

See also: Change

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

metamorphism - change in the structure of rock by natural agencies such as pressure or heat or introduction of new chemical substances anamorphism - metamorphism that occurs deep under the earth's surface; changes simple minerals into complex minerals epigenesis - a geological change in the mineral content of rock after the rock has formed geologic process, geological process - (geology) a natural process whereby geological features are modified katamorphism - metamorphism that occurs at or near the earth's surface; breaks down complex minerals into simpler ones