anticline

A geological fold structure in the form of an arch, with the younger strata at the top of the succession. It is formed as a result of compressional forces acting in a horizontal plane on rock strata.

In structural geology, an anticline is a fold that is convex up or to the youngest beds.

On a geologic map, anticlines are usually recognized by a sequence of rock layers that are progressively older toward the center of the fold.

If an anticline plunges (i.e., is inclined to the earth's surface), the surface strata will form Vs that point in the direction of plunge.

Anticline terminology

Any fold whose form is convex upward is an antiform, and most antiforms are anticlines.

Antiforms are small, generally non-mappable anticlines, whereas a fold is referred to as an anticline if it is of mappable size.

A large-scale anticline that plunges in all directions to form a circular or elongate structure is a dome.

An anticline which plunges at both ends is termed a culmination, and is typically formed from multiple deformations, or superposition of two sets of folding.

An anticlinorium is a series of parallel anticlinal folds on a regional domed structural feature.

Economic significance

Anticlines, culminations and structural domes are favored locations for oil and natural gas drilling;

Periclines are important focal points for pooling of hot, metal-laden formational brines, which can form manto ore deposits, Irish-type lead-zinc deposits and uranium deposits, amongst others.

Culminations in folded strata which are cut by shears and faults are favoured loci for deposition of saddle-reef style lode gold deposits.