Fracture (geology)

High school (ages 12+)
Geography

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/fracture-geology

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the types of fractures?Joints (no displacement) and Faults (with displacement)
2. What is the hydrogeological role?Creates secondary permeability and porosity, facilitating fluid flow (water, hydrocarbons, geothermal fluids)
3. What is a fracture in geology?A fracture is a crack in rock where the rock has broken because the stress was too strong. It can be a simple joint or a fault if the rock blocks move.
4. Why do rocks crack and make fractures?Rocks crack when forces like tectonic pushes, pulling, or pressure from water or heat become stronger than the rock can hold. This stress can come from the Earth moving or from fluids inside the rock.

Tectonic Forces: Forces generated by the movement of Earth's lithospheric plates.
Lithology: The physical characteristics of a rock, such as its composition and texture.
Aperture: The width or opening of a fracture or crack.