Metamorphic Rocks Quiz

What is the process called that transforms a protolith into a metamorphic rock?

• Metamorphism

• Erosion

• Sedimentation

• Weathering

Answer explanation

The process that transforms a protolith into a metamorphic rock is called metamorphism. This involves changes in mineralogy and texture due to heat, pressure, and chemically active fluids, distinguishing it from erosion, sedimentation, and weathering.

Tags

VA.ES.5.a.

VA.ES.5.b.

VA.ES.5.d.

What is the term for the type of metamorphism that occurs due to deep burial?

• Burial metamorphism

• Contact metamorphism

• Regional metamorphism

• Dynamic metamorphism

Answer explanation

Burial metamorphism occurs when rocks are subjected to increased pressure and temperature due to deep burial beneath overlying materials. This process primarily affects sedimentary rocks, transforming them into metamorphic rocks.

Tags

VA.ES.5.a.

VA.ES.5.b.

VA.ES.5.d.

What is the metamorphic grade?

• The color of the rock

• The degree to which the parent rock changes

• The size of the rock

• The age of the rock

What is the initial stage in the hamburger analogy for metamorphic grade?

• Medium

• Raw

• Well-done

• Burnt

Answer explanation

In the hamburger analogy for metamorphic grade, 'Raw' represents the initial stage, indicating the lowest level of metamorphism before any cooking or transformation occurs.

What type of metamorphism leads to the formation of Slate from Shale?

• High-grade metamorphism

• Low-grade metamorphism

• Contact metamorphism

• Regional metamorphism

Answer explanation

Low-grade metamorphism occurs at relatively low temperatures and pressures, which transforms shale into slate. This process involves the alignment of minerals, resulting in the fine-grained texture characteristic of slate.

What are the characteristics of minerals in Folded gneiss?

• Loosely packed clay minerals

• Tightly packed chlorite and mica grains

• Randomly oriented mineral grains

• Deformed layers of segregated grains

Answer explanation

Folded gneiss is characterized by deformed layers of segregated grains, resulting from intense pressure and heat during metamorphism, which aligns and segregates minerals, unlike the other options that describe less organized structures.

What is the texture of the parent rock Granodiorite?

• Loosely packed clay minerals

• Tightly packed chlorite and mica grains

• Randomly oriented mineral grains

• Deformed layers of segregated grains

Answer explanation

Granodiorite has a texture characterized by randomly oriented mineral grains, which allows for a more heterogeneous appearance compared to other textures. This distinguishes it from the other options provided.

What is the primary texture discussed in the context of metamorphic rocks?

• Foliation

• Granulation

• Crystallization

• Sedimentation

Answer explanation

The primary texture of metamorphic rocks is foliation, which refers to the parallel alignment of mineral grains due to pressure and temperature changes. This distinguishes them from other rock types.

What type of stress direction is involved in the recrystallization process of foliation?

• Perpendicular

• Parallel

• Diagonal

• Vertical

Answer explanation

In the recrystallization process of foliation, stress is applied perpendicularly to the foliation planes. This perpendicular stress causes the minerals to realign, leading to the characteristic layered structure of foliated rocks.

What type of texture is characterized by platy minerals discernible with the unaided eye?

• Granular

• Schistosity

• Non-foliated

• Porphyritic