Compass and Clinometer Use

The geological compass is the primary tool for measuring structural orientations. Strike and Dip Strike The horizontal line formed by the intersection of an inclined plane with a horizontal surface. Measured as bearing 0-360° . Dip The angle of maximum inclination of a plane, measured perpendicular to strike. Always less than 90°. Measurement Technique Strike Measurement 1. Find a flat surface on the feature 2. Place compass edge along surface 3. Level the compass horizontally 4. Read bearing from needle Dip Measurement 1. Rotate compass 90° from strike 2. Place clinometer against surface 3. Read angle from clinometer 4. Note dip direction Recording Conventions Strike/Dip: 045°/35°SE strike azimuth/dip angle/dip direction Dip/Dip Direction: 35°/135° dip angle/dip direction azimuth

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Verification resources

Cross-check terminology, classification, methods, and safety with these authoritative external resources.

Geoscience maps — Natural Resources Canada. Government bedrock, surficial, geochemical, glacial, and hazard map resources.
National Geologic Map Database — U.S. Geological Survey. Geologic maps, reports, standards, and mapping resources from geological surveys.

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Compass and Clinometer Use

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Verification resources