Metamorphic rocks are one of the three main types of rock. Originally
comprising either igneous or sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks are
the products of change by heat and pressure, often at great depths in
the earth's crust, into a completely new form. One of the classic
examples of the result of a metamorphic process is the transformation of
sedimentary mudstone into slate.Introducing Metamorphism provides a
succinct introduction to metamorphism. Ian Sanders explains how and why
rocks change during metamorphic processes. He discusses the role of
water in metamorphism and describes the different types of metamorphic
processes including contact, shock and high pressure metamorphism and
metamorphism in an orogenic belt.Copiously illustrated and written for
those who wish to gain a clear understanding of metamorphic processes,
Introducing Metamorphism is designed to make the processes that led to
the formation of these rocks intelligible to its readers. Technical
terms are kept to a minimum and are explained in a glossary.