What are Metamorphic Rocks?

Tectonic or lava activity generates the high temperature required for metamorphosis. High pressure reduces the space between the mineral granules inside rock and re-crystallization can take place. The spaces between atoms changes, and a new mineral with a closer, or different atomic arrangement is formed. High temperature and high pressure induces changes in rocks and this change is called metamorphism and so rock that has undergone this process is called metamorphic. Common metamorphic rocks in Taiwan include slate, schist, gneiss, marble and metamorphic sandstone.