Question

Figures I, II and III are the outcrop patterns of three inclined beds P, Q and R on a flat ground. P is the oldest and R is the youngest amongst these beds. Identify the correct option that explains repetition of beds in the figures. 

• A. I-anticline; II-syncline; III-fault
• B. I-syncline; II-anticline; III-fault
• C. I-fault; II-anticline; III-syncline
• D. I-syncline; II-fault; III-anticline

Hint:

In structural geology, anticlines and synclines refer to folded layers of rock, while faults result in offset layers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the outcrop patterns.
- In the first image (I), the beds are in a syncline (younger beds are in the center).
- In the second image (II), the beds are arranged in an anticline (older beds are in the center).
- In the third image (III), the beds are offset, suggesting the presence of a fault.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) I-anticline; II-syncline; III-fault: Incorrect — The patterns for I and II are swapped.
(B) I-syncline; II-anticline; III-fault: Correct — This matches the described patterns of beds in the figures.
(C) I-fault; II-anticline; III-syncline: Incorrect — The description of I as a fault is incorrect.
(D) I-syncline; II-fault; III-anticline: Incorrect — The second image cannot be a fault.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) I-syncline; II-anticline; III-fault, as it correctly explains the repetition of beds in the figures.