A syncline is a fold in which the rock layers dip towards each other, and the younger layers are in the centre. It is called a synform if the strata dip towards each other, but the older layers are in the centre. When a series of minor folds is superimposed on a large syncline, it is called a synclinorium. In cross-section, the secondary folds have the shape of inverted fans. Both synclines and anticlines are major components of fold belts or fold systems. There are different types of synclines and different causes of formation. Large synclines tend to become structural basins, which are ideal locations for oil- and gas-bearing strata and coal deposition.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Access this chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2020 Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.
About this entry
Cite this entry
(2020). Syncline. In: Chen, A., Ng, Y., Zhang, E., Tian, M. (eds) Dictionary of Geotourism. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-2538-0_2398
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-2538-0_2398
Published:
Publisher Name: Springer, Singapore
Print ISBN: 978-981-13-2537-3
Online ISBN: 978-981-13-2538-0
eBook Packages: Earth and Environmental ScienceReference Module Physical and Materials ScienceReference Module Earth and Environmental Sciences