Question

Describe the three types of differential stress involved in the deformation of rocks

A) Compressive stress, Torsional stress, Tensile stress,
B) Shear stress, Pressure stress, Confining stress
C) Heat stress, Chemical stress, Biological stress
D) Elastic stress, Plastic stress, Brittle stress

Answer 1

Differential stress in rock deformation involves compressive stress, tensile stress, and shear stress, with rocks behaving differently under stress based on numerous factors like depth and time under stress.

Step-by-step explanation:

The types of differential stress involved in the deformation of rocks are compressive stress, tensile stress, and shear stress. Compressive stress occurs when rocks are pushed together, which can result in folding or fracturing of rocks. Tensile stress is experienced when rocks are pulled apart from each other, leading to elongation and possibly fractures if the stress exceeds the rock's elastic limit. Lastly, shear stress is observed when rocks slide past each other horizontally in opposite directions, which also can cause changes in the rock structure, such as faulting.

Each type of stress affects rocks differently depending on several factors, like the depth of the rock, pressure and temperature conditions, and the duration of stress. At great depths, rocks tend to deform in a more plastic manner, while near the Earth's surface, they are more likely to respond to stress in a brittle manner.