Rock the ASBOG Exam 2026 – Dig Deep into Geology Greatness!

As one moves away from the fold axis, the dip angle generally decreases laterally. This occurs because, in folded structures, the intensity and orientation of the layers change as you move away from the axis of the fold. Near the fold axis, strata are subject to the highest angular deformation due to the compressional forces that created the fold, leading to a steeper dip. As you move away from this axis, the effects of this deformation diminish, and the beds typically return to a more horizontal position, which corresponds to a decrease in dip.

This behavior is consistent with the principles of structural geology, where folds create complex patterns of layer orientation. The understanding that dip decreases laterally away from the fold axis is crucial for geologists as it influences various geological assessments, such as resource locating and understanding subsurface conditions.