STRATUM AND

LAYERING
- S T R A TIG R A P H Y

STRATIFICATION AND LAMINATION

THE STRATUM Stratification: It's the arrangement of
sediments, sedimentary rocks, and some
.In the 17th century, Steno introduced the term "strata" metamorphic rocks in layers. It refers to
in Geology to describe rock layers limited by continuous both the geometric and genetic aspects of
horizontal surfaces, marking the origin of the "principle distinguishable layers or beds within
of the original horizontality and lateral continuity of the rocks. Strata are successive layers that
reflect different depositional time periods.
strata". The concept evolved in two aspects: geometric,
Lamination: Defined as the successive
where Campbell defined it as visually discernible layers arrangement of thin layers within a
separated by layering surfaces; and genetics, according stratum. It can exhibit structures such as
to Otto, as sedimentation units deposited under parallel or cross-bedded lamination,
constant physical conditions, enriching the geological among others. Lamination is an internal
arrangement that can be found within
understanding of the strata.
strata, though it might be affected by
bioturbation.

CAUSES OF STRATIFICATION

Stratification arises from the complex interplay of

physical, chemical, and/or biological conditions that
STRATIFICATION SURFACES

govern sedimentation. It's an inherent trait of
- Clear visibility of stratification surfaces is aided by distinct sedimentation, so nearly all sedimentary rocks
lithological differences between successive layers and selective
modern erosion of softer or more soluble materials. exhibit this feature. Only exceptions are rocks

- Stratification surfaces can be either distinct or diffuse. Distinct

formed
surfaces separate layers with similar or dissimilar lithology, while
diffuse contacts display gradual transitions between lithological or
textural terms.

- Geometrically, various types of stratification surfaces exist, including

flat and irregular surfaces, each revealing unique details like current
structures, organism traces, load structures, ripple-induced
undulations, bioturbated surfaces, and nodular arrangements.

ORIGIN OF LAMINATION MEASURING STRATIFICATION

Strata are generally deposited subhorizontally but occur in diverse

Lamination arises differently from stratification, with various geometric positions due to post-depositional deformations,
especially tilting and folding. Two measures are used to express the
genetic types. Each lithological type (laminations in shales or spatial orientation of a stratum or stratification surface: the strike
sandstones) corresponds to specific genetic conditions. and the dip.
Strike: Angle between the horizontal line within the stratum and
Shale lamination results from periodic (sometimes seasonal) the north-south geographic coordinate, measured clockwise
changes in sedimentary conditions. from the north in degrees. Not applicable to horizontal layers.
Dip: Angle between the stratum's maximum slope line

(perpendicular to strike) and its projection on the horizontal
Sandstone lamination has distinct origins. Some form due to plane. Expressed in degrees (0-90°), with an added indication of
the dip direction. Exceptions: horizontal layers (0° dip) and
intervals without deposition followed by material concentration in vertical layers (90° dip).
channels, while others emerge as an internal structure in parallel

strata formed by traction currents.

TYPES OF STRATIFICATION

STRATIGRAPHIC
Geometric Types:
Tabular: Parallel flat roof and wall. SECTIONS AND RECORD
Irregular with erosive wall: Extensive lateral spread, uneven Stratigraphic sections arrange layers chronologically,
wall, flat roof. forming units with similar traits. They're essential for
Channelized: Limited lateral extent, variable thickness.
Wedge-shaped: Non-parallel flat surfaces tapering laterally. understanding Earth's history. Local sections organize
Lenticular: Discontinuous, flat wall, convex roof. outcropping layers, while composite sections combine
Undulating: Continuous, flat wall, wavy roof.
Associations of Strata:
multiple local ones from a basin. Through correlation,
Uniform: Equal thickness. global stratigraphic sections provide a universal
Random: Variable thickness.
chronostratigraphic scale for Earth's history, refining
Stratocline: Increasing thickness sets towards top.
Stratodcline: Decreasing thickness sets towards top. with better data. The stratigraphic record
In bundles: Uniform thickness within sets, different between encompasses geological phenomena...
sets.
Massive bedding: Non-distinguishable stratification.

JUAN A. VERA TORRES (1994) luis julian nuñez pineda AREANDINA

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