Isopach

Definition: A contour that connects points of equal thickness. Commonly, the isopachs, or
contours that make up an isopach map, display the stratigraphic thickness of a rock unit as
opposed to the true vertical thickness. Isopachs are true stratigraphic thicknesses; i.e.,
perpendicular to bedding surfaces.(Source)
A contour that connects points of equal thickness. Commonly, the isopachs, or
contours that make up an isopach map, display the stratigraphic thickness of a rock
unit as opposed to the true vertical thickness. Isopachs are true stratigraphic
thicknesses; i.e., perpendicular to bedding surfaces.

Pronunciation: -s-pak
Date: approximately 1918

Structure map includes an isopach of the reservoir with contours shown in red dashes. Venezuela
Well Evaluation Conference, 1997, page 2-26
Isopach is a Map of the thickness variation of a stratigraphic unit; used in geological exploration
for oil and for underground structural analysis. I always love to draw it due to its importance to
evaluate a reservoir or aquifer in subsurface geology.
My favorite Example
Five wells were drilled (I-V), which well no. (I) at the middle with respect to the others as shown
on the sketch. The vertical thickness in meters of sands formation in these wells are as follows:
Well no

Sands

II

III

IV

25

100

75

100

75

Sandstone in this example is oil-bearing bed we need to know which direction its thickness
increased to produce the maximum oil production from it.

Isopach map for sands formation with contour interval 20 CM

The thickness of sands formation incease outer the center
thickness in NE-SW direction is the maximum 100 m
and in NW- SE direction is 75 m
Isopach map helped us in this example to determine the direction that the thickness of sands
formation increased.
For a list of other geologists favorite words, check out the Accretionary Wedge #35.