What Is Strike Slip Fault?

strike-slip fault - a fault on which the two blocks slide past one another. The San Andreas Fault is an example of a right lateral fault.

What causes a strike-slip fault?

The cause of strike-slip fault earthquakes is due to the movement of the two plates against one another and the release of built up strain. As the larger plates are pushed or pulled in different directions they build up strain against the adjacent plate until it finally fails.

What is an example of a strike-slip fault?

In a strike-slip fault, the movement of blocks along a fault is horizontal. The fault motion of a strike-slip fault is caused by shearing forces. Other names: transcurrent fault, lateral fault, tear fault or wrench fault. Examples: San Andreas Fault, California; Anatolian Fault, Turkey.