GEL 101: Structural Geology (Oskin)
- Page ID
- 375
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Structural geology allows us to unravel deformational histories and their relationships to the Earth system as a whole, helping us to understand the mechanisms of plate tectonics and its expression as fault slip in the upper crust and as plastic flow at depth. It is used in quantifying hazards related to earthquake probability and concepts such as slope stability, and involves investigation of applied mechanics of natural materials, helping us understand rock strength and hydraulic fracture (fracking). Structural geology also has economic uses, helping to find resources deformed or created by geologic structures.
Contributors
Michael E. Oskin (Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, UC Davis)