ASBOG Practice Exam

What describes the movement in a strike-slip fault?

1. Vertical dislocation

2. Horizontal dislocation

3. Combination of vertical and horizontal

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Horizontal dislocation

In a strike-slip fault, the primary characteristic is the horizontal movement of rock masses along the fault line. This horizontal dislocation occurs because the rocks on either side of the fault slide past each other, primarily in a lateral manner. This type of faulting is typically associated with tectonic plate boundaries where plates are sliding horizontally against one another, such as the San Andreas Fault in California. Understanding strike-slip faults is essential in the field of geology and tectonics, as they can lead to significant geological events like earthquakes. The horizontal motion can be right-lateral or left-lateral, depending on the direction of movement when viewed from either side of the fault. Recognizing this movement type is crucial for assessing risks related to seismic activity in geologically active regions.