Which one of the following stress situations results in folding of flat-lying, sedimentary strata?
A)horizontally directed, compressive stresses
B)vertically directed, extensional or stretching stresses
C)horizontally directed, extensional stresses
D)vertically oriented digital stresses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Flat-lying, sedimentary strata are typically folded by horizontally directed, compressive stresses. These stresses push on the edges of the strata, causing them to buckle and fold. Vertically directed, extensional or stretching stresses would pull the strata apart rather than folding them, and horizontally directed, extensional stresses would cause the strata to be stretched and thinned rather than folded. Vertically oriented digital stresses are not a relevant stress situation for folding of flat-lying, sedimentary strata.

Which One of the Following Stress Situations Results in Folding