Stratas

Stratas is the plural form of "stratum." In a general context, a stratum refers to a layer or a level, often one of several parallel layers arranged one above or below another. The term is used across various disciplines, each with its own specific nuances in meaning.

In geology, a stratum is a layer of sedimentary rock or soil with internally consistent characteristics. These layers are typically distinguishable from adjacent layers by differences in composition, color, texture, or other properties. The study of strata, known as stratigraphy, is fundamental to understanding the geological history of an area and the processes that have shaped it over time.

In sociology, a stratum refers to a level or class in a system of stratification, which ranks members of a society according to various criteria such as wealth, status, and power. Societal stratification often creates distinct social strata with varying access to resources and opportunities.

In biology, stratum can refer to a layer of tissue, as in the layers of the skin (e.g., stratum corneum).

More broadly, "stratum" can be used to describe any level or layer in a hierarchical system or a complex structure. The plural form, "stratas," is therefore used when referring to multiple such layers or levels. The choice between "strata" and "stratas" as the plural is debated, with "strata" being the more traditional and widely accepted Latinate plural. However, "stratas" is increasingly used, especially in less formal contexts, as a regular English pluralization.