Geologic maps
The map which shows geological features is generally known as geological
maps (Geology
Dictionary). a stratum is selected and strategic contour lines
will be drawn on this stratum. This will reveal the topographic trend of the
underground strata. When the strata is fractured or discontinued, it is not
easier to show these lines. Tilted beds are indicated using long and short
line and numbers. The horizontal direction is indicated by strike lines
which are generally long. The number is used to refer to the dip and the
tilt where as the direction in which the tilt occurs is indicated by the dip
line which is short.
The geologic maps have slightly differing features across the globe. They
are having different kind of representations which differ from country to
country. In US, the geologic map is super imposed on topographic map. The
geologic unit is indicated by the color mask and the symbols. The geological
maps in US are generally produced by the states on their own. Some states
have no geologic maps in US while others have a large number of maps for
varied purposes.
Geologic map is usually referred to as geological map in United Kingdom. UK
extensively uses geologic maps. Fault lines are indicated by symbols and
geologic units are indicated by colors. Geologic maps
have various uses and benefits. They are used to represent the rocks and the
surface soil. They give a basic idea about the rocks that lie at a certain
depth and also mention about the age of these rocks and the surface soil.
They can speak about the location of faults and earth quakes. The maps are
generally made by analyzing the exposed rocks and soil and depicting the
collected information on maps.
There are some basic representations used in the geologic maps which will
make reading the map easier for people. The colored patches usually stand
for the areas that are represented by the geologic units. The age of the
unit is identified by specific colors. The name and age of the rock will be
usually coded using separate symbol for each blob. The rock will be usually
described by the rock unit given as a legend in the map.
The geologic units including soil and river deposits are usually shown using
yellow color. Older rocks or defaulted rocks usually use other colors for
indication in a geologic map. Faults can be represented by special symbols.
Folded rock layers also can be indicated with specific symbols intended for
them.
Geologic maps are generally produced with the help of specific programs
intended for them and can even be used in the search for
diamonds. They are
highly used for resolving the problems affecting earth and its environment
and resources. Nowadays advanced concept of geologic maps using digital data
capture is being used largely. They are known as digital geologic maps.
Geologic maps give a bulk of useful information including the location of
earth's resources and also when they have formed in earth. Such information
is highly relevant in forecasting the occurrence of natural hazards and
other environmental problems. This will reduce the economy and effort needed
to resolve the problems caused due to such environmental risks.
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