Which of the following changes do not typically occur in rock as it is subjected to metamorphism?

(2 answers are correct)

Question

Which of the following changes do not typically occur in rock as it is subjected to metamorphism?

(2 answers are correct)

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

We are asked to identify which changes do NOT typically occur in rock during metamorphism, and there are two correct choices.

Option 1: 'new elements can be created through metamorphism' — This is not a typical metamorphic outcome. Metamorphism involves recrystallization and redistribution of existing minerals and elements under heat and pressure, but it does not create new chemical elements. Elemental composition remains the same overall, so this statement is inaccurate for describing metamorphic processes.

Option 2: 'mineral crystals can become aligned perpendicular to the stress field' — Metamorphism commonly produces preferred orientation or foliation as minerals recrystallize under directional stress. The familiar result is alignment parallel to the direction of maximum compression (or along the shortening direction), not perpendicular to the stress field. Therefore, stating perpendicular alignment mischaracterizes the usual fabric development, making this a not-typical change.

Option 3: 'mineral crystals can shrink due to metamorphism' — Grain size change is a nuanced outcome of metamorphism. While recrystallization often leads to growth or coarsening in some minerals, creating larger and cleaner crystals, there are cases where grains can become smaller or more complex due to dynamic recrystallization and subgrain formation. However, a general, everyday description of metamorphism emphasizes grain growth and recrystallization rather than universal shrinking. In the context of typical metamorphic trends, this option is generally considered not a standard, expected outcome, so it can be regarded as not typical.

Option 4: 'mineral crystal chemistry can change by reconfiguring constituent atoms' — This is a well-established metamorphic effect. Under heat and pressure, minerals can undergo isochemical or metasomatic reactions that rearrange their crystal structure or even alter their composition within solid solution, leading to changes in crystal chemistry. This is a common metamorphic phenomenon and should be considered a typical change.

Option 5: 'mineral crystals can enlarge' — Grain growth is a common metamorphic outcome, especially during recrystallization under elevated temperatures, leading to larger, more stable crystals. Therefore, this is a typical change and not a 'do not typically occur' change.

In summary, the changes that do not typically occur during metamorphism are: Option 1 (new elements created) and Option 3 (mineral crystals shrinking). The other options describe changes that are consistent with metamorphic processes (Option 4) or with typical metamorphic outcomes (Option 5), while Option 2 misstates the orientation pattern expected under directional stress.

ESS 101 A Examination 2 (Friday December 5th 7:00 - 8:30 PM PST)

Which of the following changes do not typically occur in rock as it is subjected to metamorphism? (2 answers are correct)

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

Metamorphic grade refers to which of the following? Select the one best answer.

Only sedimentary and igneous rocks can be metamorphosed.

Metamorphic rocks are rocks that have changed by:

In a consumer society, many adults channel creativity into buying things

Economic stress and unpredictable times have resulted in a booming industry for self-help products

People born without creativity never can develop it

A product has a selling price of $20, a contribution margin ratio of 40% and fixed cost of $120,000. To make a profit of $30,000. The number of units that must be sold is: Type the number without $ and a comma. Eg: 20000

Which of the following statement regarding cost is correct:

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler