Structural Geology MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Strike and Dip of Rock Strata

Formula

N/A

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify the definition requested in the question regarding structural geology. 2. Recall that the intersection of a horizontal plane with an inclined bed forms a line known as the strike line. 3. Select Option B (Strike) as the correct answer.

Explanation

The strike is the direction of a horizontal line formed by the intersection of an inclined rock layer with a horizontal surface. While dip measures the steepest slope or angle of inclination, strike represents the direction perpendicular to the maximum dip direction along a level horizontal path.

Shortcut

To remember the difference between Strike and Dip, use the phrase "Strike is Level, Dip Goes Down": - Strike: The Flat/Horizontal line on an inclined plane (Think: Strike a level line). - Dip: The Slope or angle pointing downward into the ground.

Common mistake

A common mistake is selecting Option A (Dip) by confusing the horizontal trend line with the angle or direction of maximum inclination. Students often fail to distinguish between "strike" (the horizontal direction) and "dip" (the angle of steepest slope), leading them to select Option A, C, or D instead of B.