Question

What two physical conditions vary within Earth to produce different metamorphic environments? (2)

a. pressure
b. chemically active fluids
c. temperature
d. available minerals
e. the state of matter (e.g., transitioning between solid and liquid)

Answer 1

Pressure and temperature are the two physical conditions that vary within Earth to produce different metamorphic environments, causing changes such as recrystallization and formation of new minerals. The correct options are A and C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two physical conditions that vary within Earth to produce different metamorphic environments are pressure and temperature. These conditions lead to the metamorphism of rocks by altering their mineral content and texture.

Pressure typically increases with depth in the Earth and can also rise during events like tectonic plate collisions. Temperature changes can arise from nearby magma chambers or the geothermal gradient.

Both conditions contribute to recrystallizing minerals in the rock, and under certain circumstances, new minerals may form, and minerals may re-orient to form a characteristic structure known as foliation.