Here's why:
* Composition: Limestone is primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3).
* Metamorphic Changes: The heat and pressure of metamorphism cause the calcite crystals in limestone to recrystallize and grow larger. This process results in the formation of a new rock with a characteristically coarse-grained texture and often a banded appearance.
Other Possible Metamorphic Rocks:
While marble is the most common metamorphic rock derived from limestone, other possibilities exist depending on the specific conditions of metamorphism and the presence of impurities:
* Skarn: If limestone is metamorphosed in the presence of silica-rich fluids, it can form skarn, a rock with a complex mineralogy.
* Calc-silicate Rocks: If limestone is metamorphosed with other sedimentary rocks containing silica, it can form calc-silicate rocks.
Key Takeaway: Metamorphism of limestone typically results in the formation of marble.