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Question

Difficulty: EasyRocks, Minerals, and Soil

When pre-existing rock is altered deep underground by high temperatures and intense pressure without completely melting, which type of rock is formed?

  1. A
    Sedimentary rock
  2. Metamorphic rockAnswer
  3. C
    Igneous rock
  4. D
    Volcanic rock

Answer

Metamorphic rock
Metamorphic rocks are produced when heat and pressure alter the mineral composition and crystal structure of existing parent rocks deep within Earth without causing the rock to melt.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the geological conditions described in the question.
The rock forms under high temperature and high pressure deep underground in a solid state without melting.
Identifying the specific mechanism of formation is the standard way to classify rock types.
2
Match the identified conditions to the correct major rock group.
Metamorphic rock is defined by recrystallization and structural changes under extreme heat and pressure without melting into liquid magma.
Igneous rocks require liquid magma/lava to solidify, whereas sedimentary rocks require surface weathering and lithification.

Key Concept

Rock classification and formation processes
Estimated Time:30s
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Topics

Rocks, Minerals, and Soil

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