contact metamorphism

American  

noun

Geology.

1. localized metamorphism resulting from the heat of an igneous intrusion.

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contact metamorphism Scientific  

1. A type of metamorphism in which the mineralogy and texture of a body of rock are changed by exposure to the pressure and extreme temperature associated with a body of intruding magma. Contact metamorphism often results in the formation of valuable minerals, such as garnet and emery, through the interaction of the hot magma with adjacent rock.

2. See also aureole Compare regional metamorphism

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Etymology

Origin of contact metamorphism

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

When contact metamorphism occurs deeper in the Earth, metamorphism can be seen as rings of facies around the intrusion, resulting in aureoles.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2017

Any type of magma body can lead to contact metamorphism, from a thin dyke to a large stock.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

The upper body, which has intruded into cool unmetamorphosed rock, has created a zone of contact metamorphism.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

Why does contact metamorphism not normally take place at significant depth in the crust?

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

The heat of an intruded magma affects the rocks it traverses and produces what is termed contact metamorphism.

From North America by Russell, Israel C. (Cook)