Which process would change metamorphic rock to igneous rock?(1 point)
Responses
melting followed by cooling
melting followed by cooling
erosion followed by compaction
erosion followed by compaction
cooling followed by cementation
cooling followed by cementation
pressure followed by weathering
melting followed by cooling
The process that would change metamorphic rock to igneous rock is melting followed by cooling.
To understand why this is the correct answer, we need to have some background knowledge about the rock cycle. The rock cycle is the continuous process by which rocks are formed, changed, and recycled on Earth’s surface. It includes three main types of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.
Metamorphic rock is formed when existing rocks (igneous, sedimentary, or other metamorphic rocks) undergo intense heat and pressure in the Earth's crust. This causes the minerals within the rocks to recrystallize and form new minerals with a different texture. However, in order for metamorphic rock to change into igneous rock, the existing rock needs to undergo a different process.
Igneous rock, on the other hand, is formed when molten rock material, called magma, cools and solidifies either beneath the Earth's surface (intrusive igneous rock) or on the surface (extrusive igneous rock). This solidification process can happen relatively quickly or over a long period of time, depending on the circumstances.
So, to change metamorphic rock to igneous rock, the existing rocks must go through a process called melting, where the rocks are heated to such a high temperature that they turn into molten magma. Then, this magma must cool and solidify either underground or on the surface to form igneous rock.
Therefore, the correct answer is "melting followed by cooling."