CONTACT METAMORPHISM Meaning and
Definition
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Contact metamorphism is a geological process that occurs when rocks come into direct contact with magma or hot fluids, leading to changes in their mineralogy, texture, and overall composition. It is a type of metamorphism that happens within a narrow zone surrounding the intruding igneous body.
During contact metamorphism, the heat and pressure from the molten rock or fluids alter the pre-existing rocks, resulting in the formation of new minerals and changes in the crystal structure. The intensity and extent of alteration depend on various factors, including the temperature, duration of exposure, composition of the intruding magma or fluids, and the type of rock being affected.
The rocks subject to contact metamorphism typically undergo mineralogical changes called metamorphic aureoles. In these zones, minerals such as garnet, wollastonite, and pyroxene may form, while others may recrystallize into different varieties. These alterations often lead to the development of distinct textures, with original grains being replaced by new minerals or fused together.
Contact metamorphism is usually a localized phenomenon, occurring near the intrusive igneous body, such as a pluton or a dike. Some common examples of contact metamorphic rocks include hornfels, skarns, and marble. These rocks can be valuable in understanding the thermal history and geological processes that have occurred in a particular region.
The study of contact metamorphism helps geologists decipher the conditions and mechanisms of rock alteration, contributing to our understanding of Earth's geological history and the formation of mineral resources.
Common Misspellings for CONTACT METAMORPHISM
- xontact metamorphism
- vontact metamorphism
- fontact metamorphism
- dontact metamorphism
- cintact metamorphism
- ckntact metamorphism
- clntact metamorphism
- cpntact metamorphism
- c0ntact metamorphism
- c9ntact metamorphism
- cobtact metamorphism
- comtact metamorphism
- cojtact metamorphism
- cohtact metamorphism
- conract metamorphism
- confact metamorphism
- congact metamorphism
- conyact metamorphism
- con6act metamorphism
- con5act metamorphism
Etymology of CONTACT METAMORPHISM
The word "contact metamorphism" is derived from two components: "contact" and "metamorphism".
1. "Contact": The word "contact" comes from the Latin word "contactus", which is the past participle form of the verb "contingere". "Contingere" is a combination of the prefix "com-" (meaning "together" or "with") and the verb "tangere" (meaning "to touch"). Ultimately, "contact" refers to the act of touching or being in close proximity to something else.
2. "Metamorphism": The term "metamorphism" comes from the Greek words "meta" (meaning "change" or "beyond") and "morphe" (meaning "form").
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