ASBOG Practice Exam

What shape does a listric fault typically have?

1. Flat

2. Curved

3. Angular

4. Linear

The correct answer is: Curved

A listric fault is characterized by its curved shape, which results from the unique nature of the fault movement and the geological structures involved. The curvature typically follows a concave-upward profile, where the upper part of the fault has a gentler dip compared to the deeper sections. This curvature develops due to the differential movement of the hanging wall and footwall as the fault evolves, often influenced by factors such as the strength of the materials and the tectonic forces at play. Understanding the geometry of listric faults is essential in fields like structural geology and geotechnical engineering, as it affects how stress is distributed in the surrounding rock and can impact stability and fluid dynamics in reservoirs. In contrast, descriptions such as flat, angular, or linear do not accurately depict the nature of listric faults, as they imply different types of fault mechanics that do not represent the typical behavior and formation of listric structures.