These models demonstrate another aspect of the ambiguities
that may arise when interpreting folds. In each model a single
fault cuts through the nose of a plunging anticline, producing
offset on one side of the fold but not on the other. A number
of different fault geometries are shown which all result in
similar outcrop geometries. It is likely that only mapping at
the outcrop scale (of slickenside lineations of fault trace
for example) would enable one to distinguish between these models.
All block diagrams viewed from SW.
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A legend is provided at the end of this page.
In this model we have a simple translational fault in which the slip vector is approximately parallel to the dip of the west limb of the fold, so that the offset is only apparent in the east limb.
In this model the north block is rotated clockwise around a point at the surface near where the fault cuts the west limb, so again the west limb appears to be un-displaced.
Here the fault starts off cutting through the east limb of the fold and then swings around parallel to the layering as it reaches the west limb, so no offest occurs.
In this case we have a fracture with no displacement, and instead an alteration zone around the fracture causes the disruption in the east limb (which could be misinterpreted as a fault offset).