Structural Geology, Mapping and Geophysics

What this page covers

The resources split into two broad areas. The first is structural geology: how rocks bend, break and flow. The second is geophysics and mapping: how we measure the Earth and read what lies below the surface.

On the structure side, the notes on fold types describe symmetrical folds, and the notes on joints explain how tension produces a blocky look at outcrops. The Geological Structures Definitions flashcards cover bed, bedding plane, dip, strike and apparent dip. On the measurement side you will find flashcards on Rock physics, including bulk modulus and shear modulus, and a deck called Electromagnetic Surveying Flash Cards.

Where to start

1. Open the flashcard deck Geology- Structural. It runs from stress and strain through elastic deformation, ductile flow and fracture.
2. Read the notes on fold types and joints to see those ideas applied to real structures.
3. Look at the Geological structures mind map, which links unconformities, angular conformity and joints in one view.
4. Move on to geophysics with the rock physics and electromagnetic surveying decks.

Using quizzes and mind maps together

Take a quiz first, without looking anything up. The Fundamentals of remote sensing quiz is a good opening test of what counts as remote sensing. Note the questions you missed, then find the matching mind map. There are maps on rock deformation, fold mechanics, faults, pore fluid properties and coherence attributes. Read the branch that matches your gap, then return to the quiz and try again.

Some resources come from specific courses, such as the notes called Exams and Learning Aims, which list a syllabus for a structural geology and geophysical investigation course. Treat these as one student's view of a topic and compare them with your own course material.

Where it sits in the subject

This unit belongs to the strand Plate Tectonics and Internal Processes in Geology and earth sciences. Its focus on stress, folds, faults and the measurement of the Earth's interior fits that strand well.

Most resources suit university students, while a smaller share suits school students. Teachers can pick out definitions decks or maps to share with a class. Choose one quiz or one mind map today, and when you are ready, build your own set of flashcards to fill any gaps.