Effect of metamorphism on Earth's surface.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the role of metamorphism in shaping the Earth's surface appearance. Participants explore the relationship between metamorphic processes and surface geology, considering both theoretical and observational aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the extent to which metamorphism influences the Earth's surface, suggesting that metamorphic rocks are primarily visible due to tectonic activity rather than being a direct cause of surface appearance.
  • Another participant counters this by noting that regions with extensive metamorphic rocks, like the Canadian and Baltic shields, exhibit distinctive topographies, including flat lands and numerous lakes.
  • It is proposed that in areas where metamorphic rock exposure is limited, the harder nature of these rocks may result in elevated landforms, as seen in the Scottish Highlands.
  • There is a suggestion that the original poster (OP) may need to clarify their question, as it could resemble a schoolwork inquiry.
  • One participant speculates that the OP might be referring to contact metamorphism specifically.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of metamorphism in shaping the Earth's surface, with some arguing for its importance in specific regions while others emphasize the role of tectonic processes. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall impact of metamorphism.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge that the visibility of metamorphic rocks at the surface is influenced by tectonic activity, which complicates the assessment of metamorphism's direct effects on surface geology.

yovans
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How is metamorphism responsible for the Earth's surface outlook?
 
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hi there
Welcome to PF :)

Am trying to figure where you are going with this?

Metamorphism occurrs at depth. we only see metamorphic rocks at the surface of the Earth due to tectonic activity...
Uplift during many earthquakes over the millions of years, folding and erosion of landscapes

I don't see it as responsible for the way the surface of the Earth looks

cheers
Dave
 
davenn said:
I don't see it as responsible for the way the surface of the Earth looks
That's not entirely true. In locations where we have extensive metamorphic rocks, such as the Canadian and Baltic shields, we have a very distinctive topography of comparatively flat land with many lakes.

Where the exposure is more restricted in area the harder character of the metamorphic rocks is likely to see them higher than the surrounding countryside. The Scottish Highlands would be an example of that.
 
Ophiolite said:
That's not entirely true. In locations where we have extensive metamorphic rocks, such as the Canadian and Baltic shields, we have a very distinctive topography of comparatively flat land with many lakes.

Where the exposure is more restricted in area the harder character of the metamorphic rocks is likely to see them higher than the surrounding countryside. The Scottish Highlands would be an example of that.

yes that's fair comment... :)

I guess I was looking at it from the other point of view that we only see the metamorphic rocks at the surface because of tectonic activity. So any visual/geological effect they have on the Earth's surface is a secondary outcome.

I think that made sense ;)

it would be interesting if the OP expanded on what they were wanting to know

Dave
 
yovans said:
How is metamorphism responsible for the Earth's surface outlook?

This sounds a bit like a schoolwork question. Maybe we should ask the OP to give us their thoughts on the question...
 
perhaps the OP is referring to contact metamorphism
 

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