identify each of the tectonic forces from a diagram;
zzidentify the various elements of a folded structure from a photograph or diagram; zz
zzidentify the various types of fault from a diagram; zz
describe the folding process and the impact of different folding periods on Irish and international landscapes;
describe how faulting occurs and the features formed at different fault margins using Irish and international examples.
Syllabus Link: 1.3 KEYWORDS
tectonic forces tension
compression shearing folding
faulting anticline syncline limb
The rock structure of the earth’s crust can change due to the stress exerted by three tectonic forces. (Fig. 4.1)
1. Tension happens where plates separate at divergent plate boundaries. Rocks lengthen through elasticity or break apart.
2. Compression happens where plates collide at convergent plate boundaries. Rocks are squeezed and shortened, causing them to fold or fracture.
3. Shearing happens where plates slide past one another at transform plate boundaries. The forces exerted act parallel to each other but in opposite directions.
