Final answer:
Metamorphism can be induced by heat from a pluton, pressure from deep burial, or alterations from contact with hot groundwater, making 'all of these answers are correct' the right choice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metamorphism is the geological process where heat, pressure, or fluids transform the minerals and textures of a protolith, or parent rock, into a new metamorphic rock. Generally, metamorphism occurs without the rock melting, which would result in an igneous rather than metamorphic rock. The process of metamorphism may be induced by various factors, including:
- Contact with a hot pluton, which is a deep-seated igneous intrusion that brings about considerable heat to the surrounding rock.
- Heat and pressure associated with deep burial, often due to sediment deposition or tectonic processes pushing the rock deeper into the Earth's crust.
- Contact with hot groundwater that carries chemically reactive fluids capable of altering the rock's mineral content.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is: a) all of these answers are correct. Each of these situations can cause changes in the mineral content, texture, and stability of rocks, leading to metamorphism.