Normal Fault

Abstract

Initiation, propagation, and modification of normal fault geometry from planar to sigmoidal shape are described. How normal faults of one generation can have a variety of dips, geometry and displacements are discussed. Relay ramps and bookshelf gliding are illustrated. Co-existence of normal and (pseudo) thrust faults are shown. Formation of half grabens, angular unconformities and associated structures are shown diagrammatically. Displacement patterns of planar and listric (both positive and negative) faults are described. Models of lithospheric extension are highlighted. Finally, identification of a rift phase by geochemical methods is discussed.