What happens to sedimentary rocks under conditions of heat and pressure?

When sedimentary rocks are subjected to heat and pressure, typically as a result of tectonic processes such as continental collision or subduction, they undergo a transformation known as metamorphism. During this process, the minerals within the sedimentary rock may recrystallize, align, or change altogether due to the increased temperature and pressure conditions. This results in the formation of metamorphic rocks, which have distinct physical and chemical properties compared to their sedimentary predecessors.

Metamorphic rocks can display new textures, such as foliation or banding, that reflect the conditions under which they were formed. This process highlights the dynamic nature of the Earth's crust and the rock cycle, illustrating how different types of rocks can change form based on geological processes. Understanding this transformation is crucial in geology as it helps in grasping how the Earth's materials are constantly being recycled and altered over time.