Question

The following map shows an outcrop of a coal bed that intersects the elevation contours. Which one of the following statements is CORRECT?

• A. Bed intersects a spur and dip of bed is less than gradient of spur axis
• B. Bed intersects a valley and dip of bed is greater than valley gradient
• C. Bed intersects a spur and dip of bed is equal to gradient of spur axis
• D. Bed intersects a valley and dip of bed is less than valley gradient

Hint:

When interpreting geological maps, focus on the relationship between the bed's dip and the terrain features, such as valleys and spurs, to assess the bed's orientation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Analyze the Map.
From the map, we observe that the coal bed intersects the contours in a region where it cuts across a valley. A valley typically has a steeper gradient compared to a spur. The dip of the bed, which refers to the angle at which the bed is tilted relative to the horizontal, is greater than the valley's gradient.
Step 2: Understand the Geological Concepts.
- Valley is typically formed between two ridges or spurs, and has a steeper slope or gradient.
- The dip of the bed refers to the angle at which the coal bed is tilted relative to the horizontal, and when the bed intersects a valley, its dip is steeper than the valley gradient.
Step 3: Matching the Statements.
The coal bed intersects a valley, and the dip of the bed is greater than the valley's gradient, meaning the coal bed is more inclined than the valley's slope.
Thus, the correct statement is that the bed intersects a valley and the dip of the bed is greater than the valley gradient.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Bed intersects a valley and dip of bed is greater than valley gradient}} \]