Geography • Physical GeographyMedium
In the context of structural geology and plate tectonics, which of the following describes the formation mechanism and morphological features of a 'horst'?
A. A depressed block of land situated between two parallel normal faults, formed by extensional tectonic forces
B. An uplifted block of land bounded by normal faults on both sides, standing higher than the adjacent dropped blocks✓ Correct Answer
C. A tightly folded anticline whose limbs have been completely overturned due to intense compressional stress
D. A linear volcanic fissure formed by the outpouring of basaltic lava along divergent plate boundaries
💡 Solution & Explanation
A horst is an elevated block of Earth's crust that has been lifted upward relative to the surrounding blocks along parallel normal faults, resulting from tensional tectonic forces that stretch the crust. The depressed blocks lying alongside a horst are known as grabens, which frequently form rift valleys. Anticlines are fold structures rather than fault-bounded blocks. The Rhine Valley in Europe is a classic textbook example of a graben flanked by horst mountains like the Vosges and Black Forest.
More Geography Physical Geography questions
- Which tectonic plate boundary type is exemplified by the formation of the Mariana Trench and the surrounding…
- Which of the following microscale meteorological phenomena explains the occurrence of high relative humidity…
- Examine the structural properties and hydrological characteristics of deep-sea trenches and abyssal plains:…
- Which of the following specialized karst landforms is defined as an extensive, closed topographic depression…
- In oceanography, what defines the euphotic zone?