What is the Difference Between Metamorphic Rocks and Sedimentary Rocks?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between metamorphic rocks and sedimentary rocks lies in their formation processes. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Formation: Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and cementation of sediments, such as sand, silt, dead plants, and animal skeletons, in water bodies like seas and oceans. On the other hand, metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks (sedimentary, igneous, or pre-existing metamorphic rocks) are subjected to intense heat, pressure, or reactive fluids, causing them to change their original shape and form.
- Structure: Sedimentary rocks typically accumulate in layers, while metamorphic rocks can have either a foliated (has a definite planar structure) or nonfoliated (massive, without structure) structure.
- Location: Sedimentary rocks are usually found in water bodies, while metamorphic rocks are found on the Earth's surface.
- Examples: Common examples of sedimentary rocks include shale, limestone, and sandstone. Metamorphic rocks, on the other hand, include marble, slate, and quartzite.
In summary, sedimentary rocks are formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediments in water bodies, while metamorphic rocks are formed when existing rocks undergo changes due to heat, pressure, or reactive fluids. Sedimentary rocks have a layered structure, whereas metamorphic rocks can have either a foliated or nonfoliated structure. Sedimentary rocks are typically found in water bodies, while metamorphic rocks are found on the Earth's surface.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Metamorphic Rocks and Sedimentary Rocks? Comparative Table: Metamorphic Rocks vs Sedimentary Rocks
Comparative Table: Metamorphic Rocks vs Sedimentary Rocks
Here is a table highlighting the differences between metamorphic rocks and sedimentary rocks:
Feature | Sedimentary Rocks | Metamorphic Rocks |
---|---|---|
Formation Process | Formed by the accumulation of eroded substances, such as sand, silt, and dead plants or animal skeletons. | Formed when rocks change their original shape and form due to intense heat or pressure. |
Location | Usually found in water bodies (sea, oceans, etc.). | Found on the Earth's surface. |
Examples | Shale, limestone, and sandstone. | Marble, slate, and quartzite. |
Structure | Often have pores between pieces. | Rarely have pores or openings. |
Layering | Often have layers. | May have bent or curved foliation. |
Hardness | Generally softer than metamorphic rocks. | Almost always harder than sedimentary rocks, sometimes as hard or harder than igneous rocks. |
Read more:
- Igneous Rocks vs Metamorphic Rocks
- Igneous Rocks vs Sedimentary Rocks
- Chemical vs Detrital Sedimentary Rocks
- Rocks vs Stones
- Rock vs Mineral
- Intrusive vs Extrusive Rocks
- Limestone vs Sandstone
- Geology vs Petrology
- Gneiss vs Granite
- Schist vs Gneiss
- Erosion vs Weathering
- Marble vs Granite
- Rock vs Metal
- Basalt vs Granite
- Quartz vs Quartzite
- Erosion vs Deposition
- Granite vs Quartz
- Chemical Weathering vs Mechanical Weathering
- Limestone vs Marble