Science
What is Metamorphic Rock?
Metamorphic rock forms when an existing rock is transformed by intense heat and pressure deep underground — without fully melting. The word means 'changed form'. Marble (from limestone) and slate (from shale) are common examples.
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Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains metamorphic rock.
Key things to understand
- 1It forms when existing rock is changed by heat and pressure, but not melted (melting would make it igneous).
- 2The original rock can be igneous, sedimentary, or even another metamorphic rock.
- 3Heat and pressure rearrange the minerals, often making the rock harder and sometimes banded.
- 4Examples: marble (from limestone), slate (from shale), and gneiss.
- 5'Metamorphic' comes from Greek words meaning 'change of form'.
Frequently asked questions
- How does metamorphic rock form?
- When existing rock is subjected to high heat and pressure deep in the Earth — enough to rearrange its minerals and change its texture, but not enough to melt it. Melting would instead create igneous rock.
- What are examples of metamorphic rock?
- Marble (changed from limestone), slate (from shale), gneiss, and quartzite. Marble and slate are widely used in building and roofing.
- What's the difference between metamorphic and igneous rock?
- Igneous rock forms from molten rock that cooled. Metamorphic rock was never fully melted — it's existing rock transformed in the solid state by heat and pressure.