Question

The given outcrop pattern of a bed (shaded in grey) with respect to contours (dashed lines) indicates that the bed

• A. dips upstream.
• B. is horizontal.
• C. dips steeply downstream.
• D. dips downstream at an angle equal to the valley gradient.

Hint:

When interpreting bed outcrops, the spacing of contours can give insights into the dip direction and steepness of the bed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the given image, the outcrop pattern of the bed is shown with contours (dashed lines) indicating the elevation at different points. The bed's outcrop pattern reveals that the contours become wider as the elevation decreases. This suggests that the bed is dipping upstream.

Step 1: Interpreting the outcrop pattern.
When contours spread apart, the bed dips upward (upstream). If the contours were closer together, it would indicate a steeper dip downstream.

Step 2: Conclusion.
The outcrop pattern indicates that the bed dips upstream. Thus, the correct answer is (A).

Final Answer: \boxed{(A)}