What is the difference between thermal metamorphism and regional metamorphism?

Answer 1

Thermal metamorphism is a type of metamorphism that occurs due to the heat from a nearby igneous intrusion, leading to changes in the mineralogy and texture of rocks. Regional metamorphism, on the other hand, is caused by high pressure and temperature over a large area, typically associated with tectonic plate collision or subduction. The main difference lies in the scale and mechanism of metamorphic changes, with thermal metamorphism being more localized and regional metamorphism affecting larger regions.

Answer 2

thermal is when the rock is metamorphosed by heat more than pressure.

regional is the opposite.

so if a rock is close to the surface and gets metamorphosed next to a pluton, it is mainly heat (its not very deep, so there is not a lot of pressure, but it gets a lot of heat from the pluton).

but if a rock is very deep and far from any magma, it will be under a lot of pressure, but not a lot of heat. so thus, regional metamorphism.

Answer 3

Thermal metamorphism: Metamorphismcaused by high temperature is called thermal metamorphism.

2.)Example: graphite.

Dynamic metamorphism: Dynamic metamorphism refers to the alteration caused by high pressure during Earth's movements.

2.)Example: Hornfels

Answer 4

Thermal metamorphism is caused by heat from a nearby magma intrusion which alters the rocks directly surrounding it, resulting in changes in mineralogy and texture. In contrast, regional metamorphism is caused by tectonic forces and pressure over a large area, transforming rocks over a broad region, typically leading to the formation of foliation and new minerals.