During folding, how are joints formed in sandstone and cleavage formed in shale?

When beds undergo folding, the fold hinge stretches and experiences tension which can create extensional joints during compression. Often the fractures will infill with a mineral precipitate, forming a vein. Due to shale being composed of platy, clay minerals, the grains will rotate and align perpendicular to the direction of applied stress. If the cleavage forms at the same time as the fold, it will be parallel to the axial plane. For both of these answers, an evolutionary diagram would be required for clarity and to display understanding of the processes.

RM
Answered by Rhiannon M. Geology tutor

4891 Views

See similar Geology A Level tutors

Related Geology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the features and differences between the icehouse and the greenhouse effect?


Explain how Paleomagnetism can be used as evidence for Continental Drift?


What is the difference between a natural resource and an economic reserve?


State the 3 different types of plate boundaries, and describe their movement.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning