Metamorphic Rock — Quiz

Question 5 • Earth and Space Science

Assume that two regions experienced the same temperature but very different pressures. How would their rock structures most likely differ?

Answer

Rocks exposed to higher pressure would melt completely into igneous magma, while rocks under lower pressure would stay compact and crystalline.

Rocks exposed to higher pressure would develop stronger foliation with aligned minerals, while rocks under lower pressure would remain massive and unlayered.

Rocks exposed to higher pressure would develop glassy surfaces with random fractures, while rocks under lower pressure would show weak foliation and fine grains.

Rocks exposed to higher pressure would remain fine-grained and dull, while rocks under lower pressure would form coarse crystals and visible foliation.

Explanation

At the same temperature, greater pressure can squeeze and deform rocks, aligning platy or elongated minerals into foliation. Lower pressure causes less directed deformation, so rocks are more likely to remain massive and unlayered. Higher pressure alone does not make rocks melt completely, as choice A suggests; melting depends on conditions such as temperature and composition.

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