The Principle of Lateral Continuity
The principle of lateral continuity states that layers of sediment initially extend laterally in all directions; in other words, they are laterally continuous. As a result, rocks that are otherwise similar, but are now separated by a valley or other erosional feature, can be assumed to be originally continuous.
Layers of sediment do not extend indefinitely; rather, the limits can be recognized and are controlled by the amount and type of sediment available and the size and shape of the sedimentary basin. As long as sediment is transported to an area, it will eventually be deposited. However, as the amount of material lessens away from the source, the layer of that material will become thinner.
Schematic representation of the principle of lateral continuity
The Principle of Lateral Continuity is an important principle in geology because it can be used to make inferences about the past. For example, if you see two sedimentary rock layers that are similar in composition, you can infer that they were once continuous. This can be helpful in reconstructing the history of a region.
There are a few things that can disrupt the Principle of Lateral Continuity. One is erosion. Erosion can cause sedimentary rock layers to be removed, which can break up the continuity of the layers. Another thing that can disrupt the Principle of Lateral Continuity is faulting. Faulting can cause sedimentary rock layers to be displaced, which can also break up the continuity of the layers.
Here are some examples of how the principle of lateral continuity can be used:
- To identify the original shape of a sedimentary basin.
- To determine the direction of sediment transport.
- To identify the age of sedimentary rocks.
- To correlate sedimentary rocks from different locations.
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