The ________ in the sequence of sedimentary rocks shown below may become a failure surface.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bedding planes are the horizontal planes that separate different layers of sedimentary rocks. These planes can become a failure surface, especially when there is a change in geologic conditions, such as increased pressure or erosion of underlying layers, which cause the rock layers to become unstable and slide along the bedding planes. Exfoliation joints are vertical cracks that form due to the release of pressure during weathering, and they are not likely to become a failure surface. Foliation planes are characteristic of metamorphic rocks and uplift planes are not a type of geologic feature that can become a failure surface.

The ________ in the Sequence of Sedimentary Rocks Shown Below