Thrust Fault Definition

Thrust Fault

Thrust Fault: In the field of geology, a thrust fault is a reverse fault in which the fault plane dipping angle is less than 45 degrees. Thrust faults are dip-slip faults, and can also be listric faults. For instance, the fault underlying the western embankment of the historical St. Francis Dam in Saugus, California was a thrust fault that contributed to the dam’s catastrophic failure in 1928. And this fault line is apparent at the ground surface, as it demonstrates a contact between the sedimentary Sespe Formation sandstone and metamorphic Palona Schist.

Thrust Fault Block Diagram
Thrust Fault Block Diagram – By Geo Forward

Blind Thrust Fault

A Blind Thrust Fault: A blind thrust fault is a type of thrust fault that does not reach the ground surface. Thus, the fault plane is not observable without excavation or geophysical survey equipment.

 

Similar Posts

  • Silicates

    Silicates Definition In the fields of geology and mineralogy, the term “silicates” refers to compounds whose crystal structure contains SiO4 tetrahedra. Silicates are either isolated or joined to form groups, rings, single or double chains, sheets, or three-dimensional frameworks.

  • Tsunami

    Tsunami Tsunami: In the seismology branch of geology, a tsunami is an oceanic wave (gravitational) that is produced by seismic activity on the ocean floor. Common triggers of tsunamis are large-scale short­ duration earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or other submarine earth movements such as subsidence and slope failure.

  • Soil Compaction Testing and Soil Density Testing

    Soil Compaction Testing or Soil Density Testing Soil compaction testing, or soil density testing, is the process by which the density property of a soil mass is increased in the field by various means, and monitored by a professional geologist in accordance with local building department specifications. During the placement of engineered backfill material, density…

  • Igneous Rock

    Igneous Rock Definition In the field of geology, the term “Igneous Rock” refers to one of the three major classifications of rock that comprises the earth. As opposed to sedimentary rocks or metamorphic rocks, igneous rock derives from the direct cooling and solidification of magmatic material. Igneous rock comprises a large amount of the planet…

  • Consistency

    Consistency The term “Consistency” in the fields of engineering geology and geotechnical engineering means the degree of adhesion between soil particles within a sample, that are observed to resist deformation or rupture.

  • Environmental Consultant

    Environmental Consultant Environmental Consultant: An environmental consultant is an expert of any profession or field, who focuses their skills and knowledge towards matters that improve the environment. Environmental consultants are typically scientists with expertise in geology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. Environmental Consultants Working Towards Environmental Sustainability Environmental consultants generally provide professional services that aim towards…