CPG CPG Structural Geology & Tectonics 1

Question 1

What term describes the angle of inclination of a rock layer measured from the horizontal plane?

Accepted Answer

Dip angle

Answer

Dip is the angle of inclination measured downward from horizontal, perpendicular to the strike direction.

Question 2

In structural geology, 'strike' refers to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

The compass direction of a horizontal line on a planar surface

Answer

Strike is the compass bearing of a horizontal line formed by the intersection of a planar feature with a horizontal surface.

Question 3

A syncline is a fold in which rock layers:

Accepted Answer

Dip toward the fold axis

Answer

In a syncline, the rock layers dip toward the fold axis, forming a trough-shaped structure with younger rocks in the core.

Question 4

Which fault type is characterized by primarily horizontal movement with little to no vertical component?

Accepted Answer

Strike-slip fault

Answer

Strike-slip faults involve lateral (horizontal) movement of one block past another along a near-vertical fault plane.

Question 5

In a compressional tectonic setting, which fault type is most likely to form?

Accepted Answer

Thrust/reverse fault

Answer

Compressional stress causes shortening, which produces reverse and thrust faults where older rocks are pushed over younger rocks.

CPG - Certified Professional Geologist Practice Test