regional metamorphism

geology

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Regional metamorphism is a geological process that affects a wide area, involving mineralogical and structural adjustments in rocks due to conditions different from their original formation. This type of metamorphism typically occurs with a general increase in both temperature and pressure over a large region.12

Key aspects of regional metamorphism include:
* Agents of Change: Temperature, pressure, and fluids are the primary drivers.2
* Processes: It involves mechanical dislocation and chemical recrystallization, leading to new mineral assemblages.2
* Facets: The amphibolite facies is a common high-grade example, characterized by minerals like hornblende and plagioclase feldspar, often resulting in foliated or schistose rocks.3

Unlike contact metamorphism (driven by heat from intrusions) or dynamic metamorphism (driven by mechanical deformation), regional metamorphism encompasses broad geological areas.2

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amphibole
Regional metamorphic rocks
Many different amphiboles may be contained in regional metamorphic rocks. Commonly several amphiboles may coexist with one another in the same sample, depending on the bulk chemistry of the rock and on the pressure and temperature of metamorphism. The amphiboles typically occur…
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Many different amphiboles may be contained in regional metamorphic rocks. Commonly several amphiboles may coexist with one another in the same sample, depending on the bulk chemistry of the rock and on the pressure and temperature of metamorphism. The amphiboles typically occur…
Read More

metamorphism
Regional metamorphism results from the general increase, usually correlated, of temperature and pressure over a large area. Grades or intensities of metamorphism are represented by different mineral assemblages that either give relative values of temperature or absolute values when calibrated against laboratory experiments. Regional metamorphism…
Read More
Regional metamorphism results from the general increase, usually correlated, of temperature and pressure over a large area. Grades or intensities of metamorphism are represented by different mineral assemblages that either give relative values of temperature or absolute values when calibrated against laboratory experiments. Regional metamorphism…
Read More

metamorphic rock
Regional metamorphism
Regional metamorphism is associated with the major events of Earth dynamics, and the vast majority of metamorphic rocks are so produced. They are the rocks involved in the cyclic processes of erosion, sedimentation, burial, metamorphism, and mountain building (orogeny), events that are all…
Read More
Regional metamorphism is associated with the major events of Earth dynamics, and the vast majority of metamorphic rocks are so produced. They are the rocks involved in the cyclic processes of erosion, sedimentation, burial, metamorphism, and mountain building (orogeny), events that are all…
Read More