Hydrothermal Metamorphism (Fig. 8.3): typically occurs along mid-ocean ridge spreading centers where heated seawater percolates through hot, fractured basalt. Chemical reactions between the heated seawater and basalt result in metamorphism of the basalt.

Where is hydrothermal metamorphism most common?

Much hydrothermal metamorphism occurs at the boundaries of oceanic plates. Plates which are moving apart allow seawater to percolate through the oceanic crust.

What type of metamorphism can occur?

The three types of metamorphism are Contact, Regional, and Dynamic metamorphism. Contact Metamorphism occurs when magma comes in contact with an already existing body of rock. When this happens the existing rocks temperature rises and also becomes infiltrated with fluid from the magma.