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quartzite is made from quartz. in the case of metamorphic rocks, quartzite is made from regional metamorphism. in the process of regional metamorphism, pressure is applied making the rock hard and dense.

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15y ago
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16y ago

The heat and temperature of metamorphism recrystallizes the tiny grains of sand into larger crystal structures, without the porosity of sandstone.

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11y ago

Metamorphic rocks were molten at one time. Their grain structure is smaller and more compact than sedimentary rock, which were compacted but not molten.

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11y ago

Quartzite is harder than its parent rock quartz sandstone, because in quartzite, the quartz has been altered and recrystallised, forming the cement between the quartz grains.

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Q: Why are metamorphic rocks very hard and resistant to wear?
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Where would you find exposed metamorphic rocks?

Because metamorphic rocks from very deep underground, they have to be brought to the surface by some geologic processes before they are exposed. There are many processes that could do this, but the most common is a mountain building event. Mountainous areas often have very large areas of exposed metamorphic rocks.


What is th size grain of metamorphic rocks?

It varies some metamorphic rocks are fine grained (eg slate) and others have very large crystals (eg an augen gneiss).


Within the earth what happens to the rock when it is exposed to very high temperatures?

it melts.


Why doesnt granite erode quicker compared to other rocks?

Granite is a type of igneous rock that is composed of very hard minerals, such as quartz and feldspar. These minerals make granite highly resistant to weathering and erosion. Additionally, granite has a coarse grain structure, which makes it more resistant to the physical forces that break down rocks. This combination of hard minerals and a strong structure allows granite to erode at a slower rate compared to other rocks.


How are metamorphic rocks formed underground?

Metamorphic rocks are formed underground through the process of heat and pressure altering existing rocks. When rocks are buried deep in the Earth's crust, they are subjected to high temperatures and pressures that cause their mineral composition and texture to change. This results in the formation of metamorphic rocks from pre-existing igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks.

Related questions

What characteristics of state make metamorphic rock useful?

Most metamorphic rocks are very hard. They are often impermeable. These factors make them useful for building materials which last well.


Where would you find exposed metamorphic rocks?

Because metamorphic rocks from very deep underground, they have to be brought to the surface by some geologic processes before they are exposed. There are many processes that could do this, but the most common is a mountain building event. Mountainous areas often have very large areas of exposed metamorphic rocks.


Is a sedimentary rock or a metamorphic rock harder to sculpt?

Metamorphic rocks are formed from sedimentary and igneous rocks. When sedimentary or igneous rock is subjected to heat and pressure, the rock gets compressed. Therefore, if you had the same amount of metamorphic rock and sedimentary or igneous rock, the metamorphic rock would be heavier, because there is more 'stuff' in the metamorphic rock. ---------------------------------------------- However please note: There are types of igneous rocks that are hard (eg granite) and others that are soft (eg volcanic ash). There are types of metamorphic rocks that are hard (eg gneiss) and others that are soft (eg marble). Thus "hardness" is not a characteristic that can be used to distinguish between the two.


Why would limestone wear away faster than marble?

They wear away more rapidly than marble because the metamorphic rocks are very hard and sturdy.


What is th size grain of metamorphic rocks?

It varies some metamorphic rocks are fine grained (eg slate) and others have very large crystals (eg an augen gneiss).


What type of metamorphic rock is very hard and is originally from sandstone?

Quartzite, a non banded metamorphic rock.


Would you find fossils in metamorphic rock?

You can but it very very rare. you are more likely to find them in sedimentary rocks.


What features of metamorphic rocks do not occur in sedimentary rocks?

Foliation, which is the alignment of minerals in a preferred orientation, is a common feature in metamorphic rocks but is not typically found in sedimentary rocks. Another feature is the presence of new minerals that form due to the heat and pressure of metamorphism, which are not present in sedimentary rocks. Metamorphic rocks also tend to have a more interlocking crystal structure compared to the more loose and granular structure of sedimentary rocks.


Is this water-resistant?

Yes this bench is water resistant, this makes it very easy to clean after a hard workout.


How hard is schist?

Schist is a medium-hard metamorphic rock that forms from the alteration of other rocks under high temperatures and pressures. It can range in hardness depending on the minerals present, but generally falls between 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale of hardness.


Is quartzite foliated or nonfoliated?

Quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock, meaning it does not have a layered or banded appearance like foliated rocks do. It is primarily composed of quartz grains that have been recrystallized under high pressure and heat, resulting in a very hard and durable rock.


Is Gniess common?

Yes, gneiss (note spelling) is very common, one of the major metamorphic rocks.