Earth's Crust and Rock Structure Flashcard

Front

What is Isostasy?

Back

Isostasy is the condition where the thickness of the Earth's crust balances with its depth on the asthenosphere, leading to gravitational equilibrium.

Front

Describe the structure and formation of anticlines and synclines.

Back

Anticlines and synclines are both formed by compressional stress. Anticlines are upward-arching folds, while synclines are downward-arching folds.

Front

What is the definition of Stress in geology?

Back

Stress is the force that alters the shape or volume of rocks.

Front

How do high pressure and temperature conditions in a subduction zone affect rock behavior?

Back

High pressure and temperature conditions make rocks more ductile, allowing them to deform without breaking.

Front

What is a Fracture in geological terms?

Back

A fracture is a break in a rock structure with no movement along its sides.

Front

What is the difference between a Normal fault and a Reverse fault?

Back

A Normal fault occurs when the hanging wall moves down relative to the footwall, while a Reverse fault occurs when the hanging wall moves up relative to the footwall.

Front

Define Ductility in the context of rocks.

Back

Ductility is the ability of a rock to deform under stress without breaking.

Front

What is a Fold in geology?

Back

A fold is a bend in rock layers that occurs due to stress, resulting in structures like anticlines and synclines.

Front

Explain the term 'Footwall'.

Back

The footwall is the block of rock that lies beneath a fault.

Front

What is a Hanging wall?

Back

The hanging wall is the block of rock that lies above a fault.