katamorphism

[kat-uh-mawr-fiz-uhm]

noun

Geology.

1. metamorphism at or near the earth's surface: breaks down complex minerals into simpler ones.

Other Word Forms

• katamorphic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of katamorphism¹

First recorded in 1900–05; kata- + -morphism

Example Sentences

The phase of metamorphism dealing with surficial weathering, similar changes below the surface, and the formation of sediments, is called katamorphism or destructive change.

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The zone in which katamorphism is most active, usually near the surface, is called the zone of katamorphism.

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A given rock may be undergoing katamorphism while rocks on either side at the same depth are suffering anamorphism.

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The general process of soil formation constitutes one of the most important phases of katamorphism—the destructive side of the metamorphic cycle, described in Chapter II.

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Processes of katamorphism or weathering, usually accompanied by the formation of soils, affect the surface rocks over practically all the continental areas.

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