Which type of rock has a layered or ribbon-like appearance and may contain crystals? A) Igneous B) Sedimentary C) Metamorphic D) Compacted

What the description is pointing to

A “layered” or “ribbon-like” look with crystals is a clue about how the rock formed. We want the rock type that forms under heat and pressure and can rearrange minerals into bands.

Why metamorphic rocks fit

Metamorphic rocks form when existing rocks are changed by heat and pressure (without melting). During this process:

• Minerals can recrystallize, producing visible crystals.
• Pressure can align minerals into bands, creating foliation (a ribbon-like or striped appearance).

Common examples with this look include gneiss (distinct light and dark bands) and schist (sparkly crystals).

Eliminating the other options

• A) Igneous: forms from cooled magma/lava; crystals are common, but a ribbon-like layered pattern is not the typical feature.
• B) Sedimentary: can have layers, but they are usually from deposited sediments, not ribbon-like mineral banding from pressure, and large crystals are less typical.
• D) Compacted: not a standard rock type category in the main three rock groups; compaction is a sedimentary process, not an answer category here.

Quick memory tip

If you see bands or foliation, think metamorphic (changed by heat and pressure).