Igneous rock may also be transformed into metamorphic rock, and metamorphic rock exposed at Earth's surface may be eroded to produce sediment. Furthermore, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks thrust deep underground through subduction may eventually melt to form magma and cool into igneous rock once again.

Can igneous rocks undergo metamorphism?

Metamorphism. Any type of rock—igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic—can become a metamorphic rock. All that is needed is enough heat and/or pressure to alter the existing rock's physical or chemical makeup without melting the rock entirely.

What happens when igneous rocks are metamorphosed?

The type of rock formed is controlled by the parent rock and the pressure/temperature conditions. Metamorphism causes growth of new minerals, rotation or deformation of mineral grains, and recrystallization of minerals.