ASBOG Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

V-shaped outcroppings in geological mapping are typically formed by the intersection of geological layers with the land surface, particularly in regions where beds are inclined. When considering completely horizontal bedding, the geological layers do not dip or incline towards a valley or a slope, thus not allowing for the formation of V-shaped patterns in an outcrop.

In contrast, when beds are steeply inclined or are disturbed by normal faults, the intersection of these inclined surfaces with the landscape can create distinctive V-shaped outcrops. Furthermore, complex erosion surfaces can also contribute to the formation of such shapes as they interact with various layers, creating diverse patterns. However, with completely horizontal bedding, there is no slope to produce such V-shaped intersections, making this a decisive characteristic that does not lead to the creation of V-shaped outcroppings in geological mapping.