San Andreas Fault -Tectonic setting
Tectonic setting of the San Andreas Fault.
Modified from U.S. Geological Survey
Questions for thought
- Why is the Pacific Plate moving to the northwest?
- Is the North American Plate actually moving to the southeast?
- Most transform faults are found along midocean ridges. They cut through oceanic crust and are located entirely in the oceans. The San Andreas Fault cuts through a continent. Why is the San Andreas Fault considered a transform fault? What does this exceptional fault have in common with others?