Rock the ASBOG Exam 2025 – Dig Deep into Geology Greatness!

A clinometer is an instrument specifically designed to measure angles of slope or elevation in geological features. It allows geologists to accurately assess the inclination of slopes, which is crucial in various geological studies, including landslide assessments, mining activities, and understanding the stability of rock formations. By providing precise measurements of slope, the clinometer aids in determining how terrain may impact erosion, sediment transport, and the general stability of structures built upon or near sloping ground.

Other options pertain to measurements that fall outside the scope of what a clinometer is designed to measure. For example, the depth of a geological basin involves subsurface geological mapping and is typically determined using methods such as seismic surveys or borehole data. The temperature of the Earth's crust is measured using thermometers or thermistors, often in conjunction with borehole data. Similarly, pressure in soil layers is assessed using pressure sensors or piezometers, rather than a clinometer. These distinctions clarify why the slope of a geological feature is the appropriate measurement for a clinometer.