Mini Me Geology Blog » metamorphic rocks

New Ask-a-Geologist Question: Rock Types

tracyb — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 13:33:05 +0000

Question: What are the three big groups of rocks?

Answer: The three basic rock types are Igneous, Metamorphic and Sedimentary. Igneous rock form from hot liquid magma. The magma either erupts from a volcano, cools and hardens into extrusive igneous rocks, or forms intrusive igneous rock when the hot magma is trapped beneath the earth’s surface, cools and hardens.

Sedimentary rocks are formed when sand, small pieces or rock, or mud are pressed together to form layers of sediment. These layers of sediment are pressed together over a long period of time and form a sedimentary rock. A metamorphic rock is formed when a sedimentary or igneous rock changes form because the temperature or pressure changes. This change typically occurs over time when the sedimentary or igneous rocks are buried beneath the earth’s surface.

Read the article titled Geology is All Around You in the “Dig Into Geology” section of our website for more information on these rock types, minerals and the geologic time scale.

New Ask-a-Geologist Question: Metamorphic Rocks

tracyb — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:17:48 +0000

Question: What household items are made from metamorphic rocks?

Answer: Mostly, metamorphic rocks are used for building materials such as floors, roofs, walls, bathroom surfaces, etc. Marble and slate are two of the most common building materials. Gneiss (pronounced “nice”) and quartzite also used for building materials sometimes. Some metamorphic rocks, like garnet schist, are mined for their mineral content. The minerals can be used for a variety of uses, like jewelry.

We have several metamorphic rock kits which are great for learning about these interesting rocks. Our My Rockin’ Collection Metamorphic Rocks kit is perfect for any age and our Rock Detectives Metamorphic Mystery kit is great for young rockhounds ages 6 to 12.

The neatest rocks you probably don’t know much about

tracyb — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 14:34:30 +0000

I love metamorphic rocks. To think that each of these rocks once was a different rock and just because of some really high heat and squeezing, they became something new is really cool! Here are some details on our My Rockin’ Collection Metamorphic Rocks kit. I think you’ll agree that these rocks are cool. These kits are great for kids and adults.

You will love the variety of colors and textures in this Metamorphic Rock collection. Each of 10 rocks comes with an identification card which includes a photo and fun rock facts. Try to identify each rock using the hand magnifier and information cards. If you need a hint, the name of each rock is beneath the foam padding. If you need help using the hand magnifier or identifying the rocks, check out the “Dig Into Science” section of our website for tips on how to use your new Metamorphic Rock kit.

Each kit includes:

10 Large Metamorphic Rock Samples: amphibolite, anthracite coal, gneiss, hornfels, marble, phyllite, quartzite, mica schist, garnet schist, and slate
Hand Magnifier
Identification Card for each rock
Sturdy compartment box with snug latches for secure and organized storage

To see these rock kits in action, check out our video.

Safety Warnings
WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD Small Parts. Not for children under 3 years.

Ask-a-Geologist: Rock Types

tracyb — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:03:48 +0000

Question: What are the three big groups of rocks?

Answer: The three basic rock types are Igneous, Metamorphic and Sedimentary. See the article titled Geology is All Around You in the “Dig Into Geology” section of our website for more information on these rock types.

Look at this photo. Do you see the white rocks that look like they cut through the gray rock? These are igneous rocks that were probably injected from a magma source underground into the gray rock above, likely through cracks in the rocks. Rock formations can tell you a great deal of information about he history of an area.

Metamorphic Q&A

tracyb — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:14:05 +0000

Question: What rocks are changed by high pressure and high temperature?

Answer: The change of a rock by high temperature and pressure is called metamorphism. This is the process by which metamorphic rocks are formed. Any rock can be changed by metamorphic processes.

Keep your questions coming. Submit them to us here and look for a reply from us here on our blog and on our website!