2007-09-07 07:02:36 · 5 answers · asked by Amelia E 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have been altered due to the effects of pressure and/or heat, with or without the presence of volatiles such as water. If a metamorphic rock was altered due to pressure, cooling it wouldn't have any effect. By the way, there were some excellent answers before mine.
2007-09-07 09:43:54 · answer #1 · answered by Amphibolite 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The process of forming metamorphic rock is a reaction. When it occurs at a high temperature, the "energy peak" between the reactants and the products is overcome. However, once the reacted rock cools, the "peak" is not attainable, so a reversible reaction can't occur.
2007-09-07 14:09:25 · answer #2 · answered by cattbarf 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's rather hard to uncook an egg, but it can be done. Eat the egg and turn it back into its original components. At least some of this will re-enter a chicken and make another egg.
In terms of geology, it's called the carbon cycle. Carbon itself is solid, but easily oxidized into a gas, CO2. The CO2 is then either turned into wood by plants or clamshells by clams (Calcium carbonate). This material is buried and after, say, 100,000 years, comes blasting out a volcano as CO2 again.
2007-09-07 14:15:09 · answer #3 · answered by Roger S 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Read the definition and then you tell me.
http://mw1.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/metamorphism
If the process involves a change in physical/chemical form, once you cool it it isn't unchanging itself, it is just cooler.
Leave a snickers bar on a hot car seat and then toss it in the freezer. It is still a melted candy bar even if you freeze it later.
2007-09-10 20:38:56 · answer #4 · answered by R P 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why can't ashes become wood again? Same reason.
2007-09-07 14:06:40 · answer #5 · answered by smartypants909 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋