Skip to main content
  • 319 Accesses

Abstract

In terms of geological history an unconformity represents a period of time during which strata are not laid down. During this period, strata already formed may be uplifted and tilted by earth-movements which also terminated sedimentation. The uplifted strata, coming under the effects of sub-aerial weathering and erosion, are ’worn down’ to a greater or lesser extent before subsidence causes the renewal of sedimentation and the formation of further strata. As a result we find, in the field, one set of strata resting on the eroded surface of an older set of beds.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

eBook
USD 16.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as EPUB and PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book
USD 16.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

Authors

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 1990 G. M. Bennison

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Bennison, G.M. (1990). Unconformities. In: An Introduction to Geological Structures and Maps. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-9630-1_3

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-9630-1_3

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4615-9632-5

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4615-9630-1

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

Publish with us

Policies and ethics