what will happen to sandstone when it is exposed to extreme heat and pressure
It becomes a metamorphic rock known as quartzite
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When sandstone is exposed to extreme heat and pressure, it undergoes a geological process called metamorphism. Metamorphism causes the sandstone to go through physical and chemical changes, resulting in the formation of a new type of rock known as quartzite.
To understand why this transformation occurs, let's delve into the explanations. Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of sand grains held together by a cementing material like silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. Under intense heat and pressure, the minerals within the sandstone start to recrystallize and reorganize their atomic structure.
As the temperature and pressure increase, the sand grains become tightly compacted and fuse together, causing the original cementing material to recrystallize as well. This recrystallization process leads to the formation of quartz grains, transforming the sandstone into quartzite.
Quartzite is a harder and more durable rock compared to sandstone. It displays a granular texture with interlocking quartz crystals. The original sedimentary layers and grains of sand become obliterated during the metamorphic process, resulting in a rock that possesses a wide range of colors and patterns.
In summary, when exposed to extreme heat and pressure, sandstone transforms into quartzite through the process of metamorphism. This conversion involves recrystallization and compaction, resulting in a more solid and compact rock formation.