Question

The parallelism of contour lines and the bedding plane in a geological map indicates the presence of a:

• A. Horizontal bed
• B. Vertical bed
• C. Dipping bed
• D. Inclined fault plane

Hint:

In a geological map, a horizontal bed generally follows contour lines.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
In geological maps, the relation between outcrop patterns and contour lines helps determine the attitude of beds.

Step 1: Understand contour lines.
Contour lines join points of equal elevation.

Step 2: Interpret parallelism.
If the outcrop of a bedding plane runs parallel to contour lines, it means the bed is at the same elevation along its trace. This condition indicates that the bed is horizontal. \[ \text{Bedding trace parallel to contours} \Rightarrow \text{Horizontal bed} \]

Step 3: Final answer.
Therefore, parallelism of contour lines and bedding plane indicates: \[ \text{Horizontal bed} \] \[ \therefore \text{Correct Answer is (A)} \]