Planes of development

Planes of development are ways that geologists categorize the different layers and orientations of rock formations within the Earth's crust. They describe the arrangement and direction of strata (layers of sediment or rock), such as horizontal, inclined, or folded layers. These planes help geologists understand the geological history, deformation, and stress processes the rocks have undergone over time. Recognizing these planes is essential in fields like oil and gas exploration, mining, and understanding earthquake activity. Essentially, they provide a map of how Earth's underground layers are oriented and altered, revealing the story of Earth's dynamic processes.