What term describes the rock deformation process involving folding, twisting, and warping?

The term that describes the rock deformation process involving folding, twisting, and warping is diastrophism. This geological process encompasses the changes in the shape, position, and structure of the Earth’s crust due to forces such as tectonic activity. During diastrophism, the rocks may undergo significant stress and strain, leading to structural features such as folds and faults, which are common results of these deformation processes.

Diastrophism is an essential concept in geology as it is indicative of the dynamic nature of the Earth, reflecting the movements and interactions between tectonic plates. Understanding this process aids in comprehending how mountain ranges form, how earthquakes occur, and the overall evolution of the Earth's surface through geological time.

In contrast, metamorphism refers to the changes in the mineral composition and structure of rocks due to heat and pressure, but it does not specifically refer to the folding or warping. Lithification is the process of converting sediments into solid rock, primarily involving compaction and cementation, while compression typically refers to the stress that leads to deformation but does not encompass the broader range of folding and twisting seen in diastrophism.