Question

Using Google Earth, search for the following area in Pakistan: \(\mathbf{2 7} \mathbf{5 0} \mathbf{3 5} . \mathbf{0 0} \mathbf{N}\) \(\mathbf{6} 7 \mathbf{1 0} \mathbf{0 3} \cdot \mathbf{7 0} \mathbf{E}\). Zoom out to an eye altitude of approximately 25,000 feet. The inclined layers in these folded rocks can be easily seen. As you view them, in which compass direction are the beds dipping? a. Northeast \((\mathrm{NE})\) b. Southeast (SE) c. Northwest (NW) d. Southwest (SW)

Short answer

The beds are dipping in the Northwest (NW) direction.

Step-by-step solution

Locate the Specified Coordinates

First, open Google Earth and input the provided coordinates into the search bar: latitude \(27.5035^\circ N\) and longitude \(67.1003^\circ E\). This will take you directly to the specified area in Pakistan.

Adjust the View to Appropriate Zoom Level

Once you are at the specified coordinates, zoom out until you reach an eye altitude of approximately 25,000 feet. This level of zoom will give you a broader view of the geographic and geological features, such as the folded rock layers.

Observe the Geologic Features

Examine the satellite imagery for visible characteristics of the folded rock layers. Pay special attention to the orientation and angle of the layers as they will indicate the direction in which the beds are dipping.

Identify the Direction of Dipping

Using compass directions, determine the direction in which the inclined layers appear to dip. Compare the orientation of these geological formations against the compass rose provided by Google Earth, which typically shows North at the top of the screen.

Determine the Correct Answer

Consider the options provided: Northeast (NE), Southeast (SE), Northwest (NW), and Southwest (SW). Based on your observation in the previous step, choose the compass direction that matches the dipping of the folded rock layers.

Key concepts

Folded Rock Layers

Folded rock layers are a fascinating feature on Earth’s surface, often formed by the tectonic activities that cause the Earth's crust to bend and fold. These layers occur when sedimentary rock layers are pushed together due to earth movements, creating wave-like structures known as folds. This often happens at the boundaries of tectonic plates, where intense pressure is exerted. When observing folded rock layers, it is crucial to understand the terms "anticlines" and "synclines." An anticline is an arch-like fold with its oldest rocks at its core. Conversely, a syncline is a trough-like fold where the youngest rocks are at the center. Folds can also vary in size, from microscopic sizes to large folds visible from an aerial view, such as from a satellite, explaining why tools like Google Earth are beneficial for studying them. The orientation of the folds, which indicates the direction of the stress acting on the rocks, can reveal much about regional geological processes. By examining images and maps of such folds, geologists can predict natural resources' location or understand geological events that shaped the area millions of years ago.

Google Earth Navigation

Google Earth is a vital tool for modern geologists and students alike. It provides high-resolution imagery and allows users to navigate through three-dimensional representations of geographical locations on Earth. To use Google Earth for geological purposes, it's key to effectively navigate by understanding and utilizing its features.When searching for specific coordinates, simply enter them in the search bar to zoom into the desired region quickly. For example, entering coordinates like latitude \(27.5035^\circ N\) and longitude \(67.1003^\circ E\) takes you to a specific location in Pakistan known for its striking folded rock layers. An essential part of navigation is adjusting your zoom level. For geological exploration, setting an eye altitude around 25,000 feet provides a broad and clear view of large features such as folded rock formations. Zooming out to this level helps maintain the resolution needed to observe terrains effectively while covering larger areas.Additionally, using the compass directions, Google Earth can guide you in aligning your view with cardinal directions, enhancing the ability to analyze geological structures systematically and accurately.

Compass Direction Analysis

Compass direction analysis is a crucial skill when working with geological imagery, particularly in determining the orientation of geological features such as folded rock layers. It helps interpret the geographical position and inclination of these structures efficiently. When studying folded layers, understanding their dip and strike is essential. The 'dip' refers to the angle at which a rock layer or fault plane inclines from the horizontal, while the 'strike' is the direction of the line formed by the intersection of a rock surface with a horizontal plane. To determine which way rock layers are dipping:

• Observe the angle of the layers in satellite imagery.
• Notice the shadows or tonal changes in the imagery which indicate inclination.
• Cross-reference with the compass direction shown on Google Earth.

Based on these observations, one can discern the direction in which rock layers slope. For instance, if the dip is towards the East, the layers might appear to dip either Northeast or Southeast, helping to narrow down potential geological scenarios. This analysis helps in making informed decisions about natural resource exploration and understanding past geological events.

Geological Mapping

Geological mapping is a fundamental exercise for Earth scientists and involves creating maps that depict various geological features such as rock types, structures, and formations across a specific area. These maps serve a wide range of purposes, from academic research to practical applications in construction and resource exploration. Using tools like Google Earth, geological mapping becomes more accurate and accessible. One can visually identify formations such as anticlines and synclines, which are part of folded rock layers, and mark these on a map. The steps generally include:

• Identifying key geological features from satellite imagery.
• Recording their positions and data.
• Using the compass directions to annotate maps with accurate directional information.

These maps are not just about locating rocks but also understanding the processes that created them. They help in predicting geological hazards or finding oil, gas, and mineral resources. Moreover, mapping educates about Earth's history, offering insights into past tectonic activities that have shaped the present-day landscape. By meticulously studying these, geologists can also hypothesize about future geological changes and prepare for their implications.